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The 1859 Indian Head Cent is a landmark coin in American numismatic history. Designed by James Barton Longacre, it marked the introduction of the Indian Head Cent series, which replaced the earlier Flying Eagle Cent. The series ran from 1859 to 1909, becoming one of the most iconic and beloved coin series in U.S. history. The 1859 issue, being the first of its kind, holds special significance for collectors and historians alike, representing a pivotal moment in the evolution of U.S. coinage.
The obverse of the 1859 Indian Head Cent features a profile of Liberty wearing a Native American headdress, a design intended to symbolize America's unique identity and heritage. The headdress, intricately detailed with feathers, carries the word "LIBERTY" on its headband. Surrounding Liberty's portrait is the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," with the date "1859" positioned below the bust. This design was revolutionary for its time, moving away from classical representations of Liberty to embrace a more uniquely American imagery.
The reverse of the 1859 Indian Head Cent is distinct from later issues in the series. It features a simple wreath composed of laurel, encircling the denomination "ONE CENT." Unlike subsequent years, there is no shield above the wreath, giving the 1859 reverse a more straightforward and uncluttered appearance. This design change in later years makes the 1859 cent particularly notable, as it represents the original vision for the series before adjustments were made.
The 1859 Indian Head Cent was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, the only facility producing cents at that time. The Philadelphia Mint, established in 1792, was the first official mint in the United States and played a crucial role in producing the nation's coinage. The 1859 issue had a substantial mintage of approximately 36,400,000 pieces, reflecting the widespread use and demand for this new cent. Despite this high mintage, coins in Very Fine (VF) condition are highly sought after by collectors.
In Very Fine condition, the 1859 Indian Head Cent exhibits moderate wear on the highest points of the design, but most of the finer details remain clear. Liberty's hair and the feathers of the headdress show considerable detail, although some flattening from circulation is evident. The wreath on the reverse also retains much of its intricacy, with individual leaves discernible and only slight wear on the highest points. The date and inscriptions are fully readable, adding to the coin’s appeal.
The composition of the 1859 Indian Head Cent is copper-nickel, consisting of 88% copper and 12% nickel. This alloy was chosen for its durability and distinctive appearance, giving the coin a pale, almost silver-like color. The copper-nickel composition was used until 1864, when it was replaced with a bronze alloy. The decision to use copper-nickel was part of an effort to improve the longevity and resilience of the coin, which needed to withstand heavy circulation in a rapidly growing nation.
The Indian Head Cent series, including the 1859 issue, holds a significant place in American history. These coins were widely circulated and played an essential role in everyday transactions for decades. They witnessed the Civil War, the Reconstruction era, and the Industrial Revolution, serving as a tangible link to these transformative periods in American history. The series is celebrated not only for its beautiful design but also for its historical significance, providing insights into the economic and cultural landscape of 19th and early 20th century America.
The 1859 Indian Head Cent, as the inaugural issue of the series, is especially prized by collectors. Its unique reverse design sets it apart from later years, making it a must-have for those looking to complete a full set of Indian Head Cents. The coin's historical context, being introduced just before the outbreak of the Civil War, adds another layer of intrigue and importance. Collectors and historians alike value the 1859 Indian Head Cent for its artistry, historical relevance, and the story it tells about America's past.
Overall, the 1859 Indian Head Cent in Very Fine condition is a remarkable piece of American numismatic history. Its design by James Barton Longacre, distinctive composition, and unique place in the series make it a standout coin. Whether viewed as a collectible, an investment, or a historical artifact, the 1859 Indian Head Cent continues to captivate and inspire those who appreciate the rich heritage of U.S. coinage. It serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Indian Head Cent series and its role in the broader narrative of American history.