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The Indian Head Cent of 1879 is a remarkable example of American coinage from the latter part of the 19th century. Designed by James Barton Longacre, the Indian Head Cent series began in 1859 and continued until 1909, making it one of the longest-running and most beloved series in U.S. numismatics. The 1879 issue is notable not only for its design and historical context but also for its significance within the broader scope of American coinage.
The obverse of the 1879 Indian Head Cent features the classic image of Liberty wearing a Native American headdress. This distinctive design was meant to symbolize the spirit of America, combining the classical personification of Liberty with elements of Native American culture. The word "LIBERTY" is inscribed on the headband of the headdress, and the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircles the portrait. The date "1879" is prominently displayed at the bottom, marking the year of issue. This design, with its unique blend of symbolism, was innovative for its time and remains highly regarded among collectors and historians alike.
The reverse of the 1879 Indian Head Cent is equally significant. It showcases an oak wreath encircling the denomination "ONE CENT," with a small shield at the top. The oak wreath, symbolizing strength and resilience, reflects the qualities valued in post-Civil War America as the nation continued to rebuild and expand. The shield represents the Union, reinforcing the themes of unity and endurance. This reverse design was consistent throughout the series, providing a sense of continuity and stability during a period of significant change in the United States.
The 1879 Indian Head Cent was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, the primary facility for coin production in the United States at that time. As with other coins produced at this mint, the absence of a mint mark indicates its origin. The mintage for the 1879 Indian Head Cent was approximately 16,228,000 pieces. This relatively high mintage means that the coin is more accessible to collectors today, although its historical significance and enduring popularity ensure it remains highly sought after.
The composition of the 1879 Indian Head Cent is bronze, consisting of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc. This alloy was first adopted in 1864, replacing the earlier copper-nickel composition. The switch to bronze was largely driven by economic factors, as bronze was cheaper and easier to work with than nickel. The bronze composition gave the coin a distinctive reddish-brown color and a weight of 3.11 grams. This change improved the coin’s durability and enhanced its visual appeal, contributing to the series' lasting popularity among collectors.
Coins in Fine condition, such as the 1879 Indian Head Cent, exhibit moderate wear on the highest points of the design, with most major details remaining clear and legible. Fine is a grading standard indicating significant but not excessive wear, with all major design elements still visible. This level of preservation makes the coin accessible to collectors while still offering a substantial connection to its historical period. The wear patterns on a Fine condition coin can tell a story of its journey through history, adding a layer of intrigue and character to the piece.
The Indian Head Cent series, including the 1879 issue, holds a special place in American numismatic history. These coins were widely circulated and used in everyday transactions, making them an integral part of daily life for many Americans. The Indian Head Cent’s design and symbolism reflect the country’s cultural and historical heritage, capturing the spirit of a nation striving to build a better future. Collectors and historians appreciate these coins for their artistic merit and the stories they tell about America’s past.
Overall, the 1879 Indian Head Cent is a significant piece of American numismatic history, representing a nation in the midst of recovery and growth. Its design, composition, and mintage details make it a fascinating piece for numismatists and a cherished artifact of America's numismatic heritage. Whether held as a collector’s item or studied as a historical document, the 1879 Indian Head Cent continues to captivate and inspire those who encounter it, serving as a tangible link to the nation’s rich and dynamic past.