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The 1875 Indian Head Cent, minted during the late 19th century, holds a significant place in American numismatic history. Introduced in 1859, the Indian Head design was created by engraver James B. Longacre and was used until 1909. The 1875 issue represents an important year in the Indian Head Cent series, reflecting both the period's economic conditions and the continued popularity of this design. The coin is distinguished by its historical context and its status as a collectible item due to its mintage and condition.
On the obverse of the 1875 Indian Head Cent, the design features the iconic Native American profile, wearing a detailed headdress of feathers. This portrait is framed by the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "LIBERTY," which are located around the edge of the coin. The year "1875" is placed below the bust. The headdress design is intricate, showcasing Longacre’s artistic skills in depicting the detailed feathers and the distinct features of the Native American figure. In an About Good (AG) condition, the details of the headdress and the facial features are quite worn but still identifiable. The coin exhibits significant wear, with the high points of the design showing noticeable flattening, and some details may be partially lost or faded.
The reverse of the 1875 Indian Head Cent displays a design of a laurel wreath encircling a central shield. The wreath is composed of oak and laurel leaves, which are tied together at the bottom. The shield at the center displays the inscription "ONE CENT," with the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" arched above. The motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" is found below the wreath. In About Good condition, the wreath and shield are still recognizable, though the details are worn. The central inscription "ONE CENT" is visible but may be less distinct due to the wear, and some of the finer details in the wreath might be partially obliterated.
Minted in Philadelphia, the 1875 Indian Head Cent has a total mintage of approximately 3,550,000 coins. This relatively high mintage reflects the coin’s widespread circulation and use during its time. Despite this large mintage, the 1875 Indian Head Cent is still considered a significant piece among collectors, particularly in lower grades where the wear on the coin adds to its historical value and charm. The large number of coins minted contributed to the coin's availability, but its continued demand among collectors maintains its status as an important collectible item.
In About Good (AG) condition, the 1875 Indian Head Cent shows significant signs of wear from circulation. The coin's surface exhibits considerable smoothing, with most of the finer details of the design being worn away. The portrait of the Indian Head is still distinguishable, though it may appear flattened with some features blending into the background. The reverse, with its wreath and shield, remains recognizable, but the high points are worn down, and the inscriptions are less prominent. Despite the wear, the coin retains its historical value and serves as a testament to the era in which it was used.
The 1875 Indian Head Cent, particularly in About Good condition, is a piece of American history that reflects both the design aesthetics of the period and the historical context of its circulation. As a collectible item, it is valued for its historical significance and its representation of the late 19th-century coinage. Collectors appreciate this coin not only for its design and rarity but also for the historical insight it provides into American numismatics during a pivotal era in the nation’s economic history.