Indian Head Cents
The Indian Head Cent, introduced in 1859, is a great collectible US coin. Some heavily worn coins can be obtained rather cheaply, while there are plenty of quality, uncirculated cents that can be the pride of any collection. Probably one of the most recognizable US coins thanks to its design and long 50 run.
The image on this popular penny was designed by James P. Longacre. There has been much discussion about Longacre's inspiration for the image. One theory stated that the image is of Longacre's daughter wearing the headdress of a visiting Indian Chief. The more excepted belief is that the coin shows an image of "Liberty", based on classical statuary, wearing a headdress.
Some items to note on Indian Head Pennies
Late in the year 1864, the letter "L" was added to the headdress ribbon to represent the designer Longacre. There were fewer of these produced than the non "L" version so they tend to be more valuable. If the "L" has been worn off, you can still identify it as a 1864 "L" Indian Head Cent by the pointed bust. All non "L" coins had a rounded bust.
There are two San Francisco minted Indian Head Cents: the 1908-S and 1909-S. They are more rare and therefore tend to be more valuable. However, than have been some know cases of the "S" being soldered onto cheaper Philadelphia minted coins which contained no mint. This is something to be mindful of when purchasing one of these San Francisco minted coins.
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