-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 53069
Checkout
The Certified 1901 Indian Head Cent, graded MS64 by PCGS, is an exceptional example of one of the most iconic coin series in American numismatics. The Indian Head Cent series, designed by James Barton Longacre, was first introduced in 1859 and continued in production until 1909. By 1901, the Indian Head Cent was a familiar part of American coinage, circulating widely as the nation underwent significant changes, including industrial growth and westward expansion. The Indian Head Cent's long run and widespread use make it one of the most beloved coin designs in U.S. history. In MS64 condition, the 1901 Indian Head Cent is a high-grade piece that retains excellent luster and sharp details, making it a highly desirable addition to any numismatic collection.
The obverse of the 1901 Indian Head Cent features the classic portrait of Lady Liberty, depicted in profile and wearing a Native American headdress. Longacre’s design was intended to symbolize the unity and strength of the United States, blending classical imagery with Native American cultural elements. Liberty faces left, with her hair flowing down her neck beneath the headdress, and the word "LIBERTY" is inscribed on the band of the headdress. Surrounding the portrait are the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," with the date "1901" placed below. In this MS64 example, the obverse is well-preserved, with sharp details in Liberty’s facial features, hair, and feathers. The coin retains a significant amount of its original mint luster, giving it a brilliant appearance that enhances the beauty of the design. The minimal contact marks and the overall sharpness of the strike make this coin particularly attractive to collectors.
The reverse of the 1901 Indian Head Cent features a simple yet elegant design with an oak wreath encircling the denomination "ONE CENT." This reverse design, introduced in 1860, replaced the laurel wreath design used in the series’ first year and remained in place until the series ended in 1909. The wreath is topped by a small Union shield, symbolizing national unity and strength, particularly significant in the years following the Civil War. On this MS64 coin, the reverse retains much of its original detail, with crisp lines in the oak leaves and acorns, as well as clear definition in the shield. The strike is strong, and the surfaces show minimal signs of wear or handling, further enhancing the coin’s appeal. The reverse, like the obverse, exhibits a pleasing luster that adds depth and contrast to the design.
The 1901 Indian Head Cent was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the primary minting facility for the series. The Philadelphia Mint had been producing Indian Head Cents since the series began in 1859, and by 1901, the mint was highly proficient at striking these coins with consistent quality. The absence of a mintmark indicates that the coin was produced in Philadelphia, as was standard practice at the time. Philadelphia-minted Indian Head Cents are known for their sharp strikes and clean designs, and this MS64 example is no exception. The quality of the strike on this coin is evident in the clear details and the well-defined features on both the obverse and reverse.
The mintage of the 1901 Indian Head Cent was 79,611,143, making it one of the more common issues in the series. However, finding examples in high-grade mint state condition, such as this MS64 coin, is more difficult due to the heavy circulation these coins experienced. Many of the 1901 Indian Head Cents that survive today are in lower grades, having been worn down by years of use in commerce. MS64 examples represent a small fraction of the total mintage and are highly prized by collectors for their preservation of original details, luster, and overall eye appeal. The MS64 grade from PCGS indicates that the coin is in near-gem condition, with only minor contact marks or imperfections that are not readily noticeable without magnification.
The 1901 Indian Head Cent is composed of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, a bronze alloy that had been in use since 1864. This composition gave the coin its rich brown color, which deepens slightly over time due to oxidation. In this MS64 example, the coin retains much of its original reddish-brown luster, with even toning that enhances the appearance of the design. The bronze composition made these coins durable and able to withstand the rigors of circulation, which is why so many Indian Head Cents remained in use well into the 20th century. The combination of historical significance and beautiful design makes the Indian Head Cent series one of the most popular among collectors.
The MS64 grade assigned by PCGS reflects the exceptional quality of this 1901 Indian Head Cent. Coins in this grade are highly collectible because they offer a balance between beauty, rarity, and affordability. An MS64 coin retains much of its original luster and sharpness, with only minor imperfections, making it an excellent choice for collectors who seek high-quality coins that still show the full artistry of their designs. The fact that this coin has survived for over a century in such remarkable condition makes it a true numismatic treasure.
The Certified 1901 Indian Head Cent MS64 PCGS is a remarkable piece that showcases the beauty and historical significance of this long-running U.S. coin series. Its sharp details, attractive luster, and high-grade condition make it a standout coin for collectors who appreciate both the artistic merit and historical value of American coinage. As part of the broader Indian Head Cent series, the 1901 issue represents a key moment in U.S. history and a lasting symbol of the nation’s progress and growth during the turn of the century.