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The 1864 Indian Head Cent made of copper-nickel (CN) is a significant coin in American numismatic history, marking the final year the U.S. Mint used this composition for the cent. The shift from copper-nickel to bronze within the same year makes the 1864 issue particularly notable among collectors. Designed by James B. Longacre, the Indian Head Cent series is revered for its artistic portrayal of Liberty and its embodiment of the American spirit during the mid-19th century.
James B. Longacre, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, crafted the Indian Head Cent design to symbolize liberty and the country's heritage. The obverse features a left-facing profile of Liberty adorned with a Native American headdress, an unusual yet patriotic choice reflecting the nation's identity. The headdress bears the inscription "LIBERTY," and the design is surrounded by the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and the year "1864." This depiction of Liberty is serene and strong, capturing the ethos of the period amidst the Civil War.
The reverse of the 1864 Indian Head Cent showcases an oak wreath encircling the denomination "ONE CENT." Below the wreath is a small shield, symbolizing protection and strength. The oak wreath replaced the laurel wreath used in earlier issues, adding to the distinctiveness of the 1864 cent. The detailed leaves and acorns reflect Longacre's skill and attention to detail, creating a design that is both aesthetically pleasing and rich in symbolism.
The 1864 Indian Head Cent was minted in Philadelphia, as all Indian Head Cents of this era were. It does not bear a mint mark, typical for coins produced at the Philadelphia Mint at the time. The total mintage of the 1864 copper-nickel Indian Head Cent was approximately 13,740,000 coins. This substantial mintage reflects the high demand for small-denomination coins during the Civil War, as people hoarded precious metals like gold and silver.
The 1864 Indian Head Cent in copper-nickel is notable for being part of a transitional year in U.S. coinage. The copper-nickel alloy, consisting of 88% copper and 12% nickel, was used from 1859 until mid-1864. Each coin weighs 4.67 grams and has a diameter of 19 millimeters. The switch to bronze later in the year, due to the high cost of nickel and the need for metals in the war effort, made the copper-nickel cents a unique subset within the series.
In About Good (AG) condition, the 1864 copper-nickel Indian Head Cent shows significant wear, with many details of the design smoothed out from extensive circulation. The obverse, with Liberty’s profile and the headdress, often appears heavily worn, with the finer details of the feathers and the face becoming faint or merging into the coin’s surface. The reverse, featuring the oak wreath and the denomination, similarly exhibits substantial wear, with the wreath’s leaves and the inscription often blending together. Despite the heavy wear, the historical value and collectible appeal of the coin remain intact.
The 1864 copper-nickel Indian Head Cent is a crucial piece in the Indian Head series, representing the end of an era and the beginning of another. Its dual composition year makes it a fascinating study for collectors and historians alike. The transition to bronze later in the year adds an extra layer of historical significance, highlighting the economic conditions and technological advancements of the time.
The Indian Head Cent series, particularly the 1864 copper-nickel issue, continues to be a favorite among collectors for its rich historical context and beautiful design. James B. Longacre’s work on this coin blends classical motifs with American symbolism, creating a timeless piece that captures the spirit of the era. The 1864 Indian Head Cent remains a testament to the enduring legacy of American coinage and the nation’s journey through one of its most challenging periods.
Owning an 1864 copper-nickel Indian Head Cent in AG condition allows collectors to hold a tangible piece of American history. The coin’s worn surfaces tell the story of its circulation during a critical time in the United States, adding character and historical depth to any collection. The transition from copper-nickel to bronze in 1864 marks an important evolution in the series, making this coin a significant and fascinating addition to numismatic studies.