The 1892 1C Indian Head Penny, a regular strike coin from the Philadelphia Mint, is part of the acclaimed Indian Head series, continuing the design legacy of James Barton Longacre. This piece is noted for its availability across various grades, making it a staple in many coin collections.
Product Specifications:
- Designer: James Barton Longacre
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Mintage: 37,647,087
- Metal Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
- Diameter: 19.00 millimeters
- Weight: 3.11 grams
- Edge: Plain
- Year of Issue: 1892
Design Highlights:
The obverse of the 1892 Indian Head Penny features the iconic design of Lady Liberty wearing a Native American headdress, with "LIBERTY" inscribed on the band and the year "1892" displayed below. The reverse design includes a wreath encircling the "ONE CENT" denomination, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" around the border.
Collectibility and Rarity:
The 1892 Indian Head Cent is common in all grades up to MS65, making it an accessible coin for collectors of all levels. The most frequently encountered grade for this coin is MS64, striking a balance between quality and availability. Red-Brown (RB) and Red (RD) examples are also readily available, offering collectors the opportunity to own this coin with some of its original mint luster and color. The highest graded examples, as of July 2011, are a single MS66RB and a single MS67RD certified by PCGS, highlighting their rarity at this level of preservation.
Collector Perspective:
The 1892 1C Indian Head Penny is a quintessential part of late 19th-century American numismatics, appreciated for both its aesthetic appeal and historical significance. Its commonality in most grades makes it a popular choice for those looking to experience the rich tradition of American coinage, while the pursuit of the highest-graded coins presents an exciting challenge for advanced collectors seeking to include top-tier specimens in their collections.
