-
Inventory:
OUT OF STOCK
- Product ID: 17215
Checkout
The 1872 Indian Head Cent represents a significant chapter in American numismatic history, encapsulating both the design evolution and the economic context of the early 1870s. As part of the Indian Head Cent series, which ran from 1859 to 1909, the 1872 issue is notable for its role within a period of American coinage marked by transition and development. The Indian Head Cent was designed by James B. Longacre, whose work has become an iconic representation of the era's coinage, blending artistic appeal with national pride.
The obverse of the 1872 Indian Head Cent features the distinct portrait of a Native American woman, adorned with a feathered headdress. This design element, which was introduced by Longacre, was intended to reflect both the nobility and the valor of the Native American people. The portrait is surrounded by the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” and the word “LIBERTY” is prominently displayed on a ribbon across the forehead. In Fine condition, the portrait shows wear on the high points, with the details of the headdress and facial features softened but still recognizable. The overall impression of the Native American figure is evident, although the finer details have been smoothed by circulation over time.
The reverse side of the 1872 Indian Head Cent showcases a laurel wreath encircling a central shield, which includes the denomination “ONE CENT.” The wreath is tied at the base with a ribbon, and the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” arches above the central design. In Fine condition, the wreath and shield are discernible but have experienced significant wear. The intricate details of the laurel leaves and the ribbon have been flattened, but the overall structure of the wreath and the inscriptions are still clear. The coin’s reverse reflects the typical wear associated with coins that have been in circulation for a period of time.
Minted at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1872 Indian Head Cent had a production of approximately 2,525,000 coins. This mintage number places the 1872 issue in the middle range of production for the Indian Head Cent series, making it less rare compared to some other years. However, the coin’s significance is underscored by its place within the series and its historical context. The mintage reflects the ongoing demand for circulating coinage in the post-Civil War era, a period characterized by economic growth and industrial expansion.
In Fine condition, the 1872 Indian Head Cent exhibits a level of wear that affects both the obverse and reverse designs. The surfaces of the coin are smooth, particularly on the high points where the intricate details have been worn down. The portrait of the Native American and the laurel wreath on the reverse are still visible, though with a loss of fine detail due to circulation. The inscriptions on the coin are legible, though they show signs of fading and flattening typical of coins that have been in regular use. Despite the wear, the coin retains its historical value and collectible appeal.
The 1872 Indian Head Cent is a valuable piece for collectors due to its historical context and the design work of James B. Longacre. The coin’s place within the Indian Head Cent series, coupled with its production numbers and condition, contributes to its significance in the realm of American coinage. Collectors appreciate the 1872 Indian Head Cent not only for its aesthetic attributes but also for the historical insights it provides into the period of its minting. The coin remains a sought-after piece in numismatic collections, symbolizing both the artistry and the economic realities of its era.