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The 1870 Indian Head Cent is a fascinating and historically rich coin that captures a significant era in American numismatics. Struck during the post-Civil War Reconstruction period, this cent is part of a beloved series that ran from 1859 to 1909. The Indian Head Cent was designed by James Barton Longacre, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, and became one of the most enduring small-denomination coins in American coinage history. Certified by NGC in VF25BN (Very Fine 25, Brown), the 1870 example combines a well-worn yet appealing look with strong eye appeal and excellent collector value.
The Indian Head Cent series replaced the short-lived Flying Eagle Cent and quickly became a mainstay in American commerce. Longacre's design was inspired by neoclassical symbolism, with Liberty depicted in a Native American-style feathered headdress. Although often assumed to be an actual Native American figure, the obverse actually represents Liberty personified—an idealized image that speaks to the artistic conventions of the time. The design resonated with Americans as it combined strength, dignity, and cultural symbolism, making it especially compelling during a period of national rebuilding and expansion.
The obverse of the 1870 Indian Head Cent features Liberty’s portrait facing left, adorned with a detailed feathered headdress bearing the word "LIBERTY" across the band. The legend "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" arcs around the top, while the date “1870” is placed prominently beneath Liberty's profile. In VF25 condition, many of the central details of the portrait are moderately worn, but the major features remain visible. The feather edges, facial outline, and lettering still hold enough definition to appreciate the coin's design and to grade it confidently within the Very Fine range.
The reverse displays a laurel wreath tied with a ribbon at the base, encircling the denomination “ONE CENT” in large bold letters. At the top of the wreath sits a protective Union shield, an addition made in 1860 to symbolize the unity of the states. In VF25 condition, the reverse elements such as the wreath leaves, ribbon, and shield are moderately worn but remain bold and clear. The fields between the devices show smooth, even circulation wear, giving the coin an honest and historically appropriate look.
The 1870 Indian Head Cent was struck exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint, which at the time was responsible for all production of the small cent denomination. The total mintage for this year was approximately 5,275,000 coins. While this is a moderate number by 19th-century standards, surviving examples in solid collector-grade condition—such as VF25—are not excessively common. Many coins from this period were used extensively in commerce and rarely preserved in higher grades, making certified VF specimens desirable for type or date set collectors.
The metal composition of the 1870 cent is 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc—a bronze alloy introduced in 1864 to replace the copper-nickel composition used in earlier years of the series. This change was made to reduce production costs and improve striking quality. The bronze planchets used for this issue provide a rich, warm tone, which naturally evolves into shades of chocolate brown or deeper russet hues over time. The “BN” designation by NGC indicates that the coin exhibits an even brown patina, which is both typical and desirable for a coin of this age and composition.
Coins certified VF25BN by NGC are expected to retain strong details with moderate wear on the high points. On this 1870 example, Liberty’s eye, nose, and portions of the hair and headdress still exhibit discernible outlines, while the date and legends are clearly legible. The coin’s surfaces will show evidence of circulation, including light abrasions or marks consistent with its use, but it remains problem-free with no significant damage or cleaning—an important consideration for serious collectors seeking original, unaltered coins.
The reverse elements of the coin also maintain their integrity in this grade. The shield above the wreath retains a visible outline, and the individual oak leaves still show their shape even if the finer inner vein details are softly worn. The “ONE CENT” denomination remains bold and well-defined, standing out from the slightly smoothed background. This balance of wear and preservation is what gives the VF25BN grade its appeal—representing a well-circulated but still sharply characterized piece of American coinage.
The 1870 Indian Head Cent also offers insight into the economic realities of post-war America. Small denomination coins like the Indian Head Cent were essential for daily transactions and saw extensive use. Their circulation was nationwide, from urban centers to frontier towns, making these coins silent witnesses to the everyday lives of 19th-century Americans. Every mark and worn edge on a circulated coin like this tells part of a larger story, enhancing its historical allure and giving it personality that uncirculated coins often lack.
Collectors value the 1870 Indian Head Cent for its historical context, its artistic design, and its accessibility. While not a key date, it is far from common, especially in certified mid-grade conditions like VF25. It occupies a sweet spot for many collectors—affordable enough for beginners, yet scarce and old enough to appeal to more advanced enthusiasts. Its placement in the earlier half of the series also enhances its desirability, especially among those building complete year sets or focusing on 19th-century U.S. coinage.
NGC certification adds an important layer of trust and authenticity, especially in a market where counterfeit and altered coins are increasingly sophisticated. The encapsulated holder protects the coin from environmental damage and mishandling while also ensuring that its grade is recognized and consistent with established numismatic standards. A coin like the 1870 Indian Head Cent in NGC VF25BN condition provides both peace of mind and long-term value to its owner.
The coin’s aesthetic qualities also deserve mention. The natural brown toning found on properly stored copper coins from this era lends them a dignified and historic appearance. Unlike higher-grade examples that may show bright red or red-brown color, the fully brown (BN) designation reflects the coin’s natural aging process. When evenly toned and free from corrosion or discoloration, brown Indian Head Cents have a timeless look that appeals to traditional collectors.
The 1870 Indian Head Cent, VF25BN certified by NGC, is more than just a date in a series—it is a tangible piece of U.S. history, bridging the gap between artistry and function. Its level of detail and honest wear capture a moment in time, allowing collectors to hold a coin that circulated during an era of transformation and rebuilding in American history. Whether added to a type set, a complete date run, or appreciated on its own merits, this coin holds a worthy place in any collection.
As the Indian Head Cent continues to be one of the most cherished and widely collected 19th-century series, coins like the 1870 VF25BN serve as ideal examples of what the series represents—classic American design, robust history, and long-lasting appeal. With its blend of eye appeal, certified authenticity, and historical context, the 1870 Indian Head Cent in this grade remains a smart and satisfying acquisition for collectors of all levels.