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Indian Head Cent, Bronze Composite Penny (1864-1909)
Coin number: MC115
Description: Bronze Composite Penny (1864-1909), Designer - Engraver: James B Longacre, Metal Composition: 95% Copper - 5% Tin and Zinc, Diameter: 19 mm, Mass: 3.11 grams
After much experimentation with various patters, the Mint introduced the Indian Head motif in 1859. Initially, the reverse featured an olive wreath but in 1860 it was replaced by a wreath of oak and other leaves with a shield at the top. This design was continued until the end of the series in 1909. The striking varies widely. The points to check include the details at the tips of the feathers and the diamonds on the obverse. The reverse is generally sharper but details to check are the leaf and shield details. Mint State coins of 1878 are much scarcer than later issues while some issues of the 1900s are readily available. Dipping or recoloring may be an issue with certain MS coins.
After much experimentation with various patters, the Mint introduced the Indian Head motif in 1859. Initially, the reverse featured an olive wreath but in 1860 it was replaced by a wreath of oak and other leaves with a shield at the top. This design was continued until the end of the series in 1909. The striking varies widely. The points to check include the details at the tips of the feathers and the diamonds on the obverse. The reverse is generally sharper but details to check are the leaf and shield details. Mint State coins of 1878 are much scarcer than later issues while some issues of the 1900s are readily available. Dipping or recoloring may be an issue with certain MS coins.