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The Indian Head Cent 1864 CN (Copper-Nickel) in Extra Fine condition is a remarkable piece of American numismatic history, representing the final chapter of the short-lived copper-nickel alloy era of U.S. one-cent coinage. Struck during one of the most critical years of the American Civil War, this coin holds significance both for its historical context and its role in a pivotal transition within the Indian Head cent series. As the last year the U.S. Mint produced Indian Head cents using the copper-nickel alloy, the 1864 CN issue occupies a unique position in the evolution of American coinage. Its relatively low mintage, distinctive composition, and attractive design make it a highly sought-after collectible in all grades, particularly in well-preserved circulated states like Extra Fine.
The Indian Head cent was first introduced in 1859 as a replacement for the short-lived Flying Eagle cent. Designed by James Barton Longacre, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, the Indian Head cent was originally struck in a copper-nickel alloy of 88% copper and 12% nickel. This composition gave the coin a pale, almost white-gold appearance, along with a heavier weight and thicker planchet compared to later bronze issues. The design was lauded for its uniquely American imagery, featuring a personification of Liberty wearing a Native American war bonnet—an artistic blend of classical and indigenous iconography that was well suited to a nation in the midst of expansion and identity formation.
The obverse of the 1864 CN Indian Head cent depicts Liberty facing left, crowned with a feathered headdress. The word “LIBERTY” is inscribed on the band of the headdress, and the portrait is surrounded by the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” The date “1864” appears directly beneath the bust. In Extra Fine condition, the central elements of the design remain sharp and bold. Liberty’s facial features, such as the nose, lips, and eye, are distinct, while the feathers of the headdress still exhibit strong definition, though some smoothing is apparent at the highest points. The word “LIBERTY” is mostly legible, with several letters clearly visible, a key attribute in grading the coin at this level.
The reverse features a symmetrical laurel wreath encircling the denomination “ONE CENT,” with a Union shield placed above the wreath. This reverse design was introduced in 1860, replacing the original 1859 reverse that featured a simple wreath without a shield. The inclusion of the Union shield during the Civil War was a patriotic gesture, emphasizing the importance of national unity during a time of conflict. On an 1864 CN cent graded Extra Fine, the wreath retains its general outline and many of the leaves remain separated and identifiable. The shield above shows moderate wear but still retains its overall shape, and the “ONE CENT” inscription remains bold and well-centered.
The 1864 CN cent was produced at the Philadelphia Mint and bears no mintmark, as was customary for Philadelphia issues of the time. Its production was limited to the early months of 1864 before the Mint transitioned to the bronze alloy later that year. Because both the copper-nickel and bronze varieties were struck in the same year, distinguishing between the two is crucial for collectors. The easiest way to tell them apart is by weight and thickness—the CN cent weighs 4.67 grams and is noticeably thicker than the later 3.11-gram bronze coins. The color and overall "whiter" appearance of the CN cent also make it distinct from its darker bronze successor.
The estimated mintage of the 1864 CN Indian Head cent is approximately 13,740,000 pieces, a figure that includes both CN and bronze issues before the switch was finalized mid-year. Of those, the copper-nickel variety accounts for a significantly smaller portion of the total, making it scarcer than the 1864 bronze cents. Compounding this rarity is the fact that the heavier copper-nickel cents were often subject to damage and wear in circulation due to their rigidity, leading to fewer surviving examples in higher grades. As a result, any 1864 CN cent in Extra Fine or better condition is considered an excellent and desirable example.
In Extra Fine (XF) condition, the 1864 CN cent offers a pleasing balance between detail and historical wear. On the obverse, Liberty’s portrait is clean and well-outlined, with distinct facial structure and prominent headdress elements. The “LIBERTY” on the headband is mostly visible, typically with at least four to five letters clear under normal viewing. The fields may exhibit light circulation marks, but they do not detract from the overall sharpness and symmetry of the coin. The rims are complete, and there is no major loss of detail or deformation from wear or damage.
The reverse remains attractive in this grade, with the laurel wreath largely intact and separated from the central “ONE CENT” denomination. The Union shield is recognizable, though some of the finer lines within the shield may be smoothed. Leaf edges are visible, and most of the bow at the bottom of the wreath remains. The color of the coin in this condition is typically a soft golden-brown or tan, sometimes with traces of the original pale yellow hue from the copper-nickel alloy. Collectors favor coins that display even wear, attractive patina, and no signs of cleaning, corrosion, or environmental damage.
The 1864 CN Indian Head cent holds additional appeal because of its transitional status. As the final issue of the copper-nickel variety, it marks the end of the first major phase of the Indian Head cent series and the dawn of the long-running bronze era. Collectors of type coins, transitional issues, or Civil War-era coinage often place special emphasis on acquiring this coin, especially in original and well-preserved states. It also serves as a compelling piece for educational displays and historical discussions, offering insight into how economic and wartime pressures influenced changes in U.S. coin production.
From a broader historical perspective, the 1864 CN cent was a part of daily life during a moment of national crisis and transformation. Carried by soldiers, spent by civilians, and circulated across a country at war with itself, this cent has borne witness to some of the most defining events in U.S. history. Its survival in Extra Fine condition adds a layer of respect and admiration, as it has retained both its physical form and artistic elegance through more than a century and a half of change. Its weight, color, and character all speak to a time when every cent carried more than just monetary value—it carried a sense of purpose and perseverance.
The Indian Head Cent 1864 CN Extra Fine is more than just a collectible coin—it is a piece of history, encapsulating the artistry of James Longacre, the technological transition of U.S. Mint practices, and the resilience of a nation at war. As the final copper-nickel issue of a beloved series, it commands attention and respect from collectors of all levels. With its moderate rarity, strong detail, and Civil War-era heritage, this coin remains an essential piece in any comprehensive numismatic collection, offering lasting value and historical depth for those who hold it.