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The 1882 Indian Head Cent is a noteworthy example from a significant period in American coinage. This coin was struck during the latter part of the Indian Head Cent series, which was minted from 1859 to 1909. The Indian Head design, created by engraver James B. Longacre, was popular for its symbolic representation of Native American culture and its distinctive aesthetics. The 1882 issue is part of a series that reflects the economic and social conditions of late 19th-century America, a time of significant growth and transformation.
The obverse of the 1882 Indian Head Cent features a portrait of a Native American wearing a detailed feathered headdress. This design element was a hallmark of Longacre’s work, emphasizing a realistic and respectful depiction of Native American attire. Surrounding the portrait are the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "LIBERTY," with the year "1882" displayed below the bust. In About Good (AG) condition, the details of the headdress and the facial features are worn but still recognizable. The coin exhibits significant flattening of high points and some loss of fine details, which is characteristic of this grade. Despite the wear, the central features of the Indian head and the year remain identifiable.
The reverse of the 1882 Indian Head Cent features a design that consists of a laurel wreath encircling a central shield. The wreath, composed of oak and laurel leaves, is tied at the base with a ribbon. The central shield bears the inscription "ONE CENT," with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" arched above. The motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" appears below the wreath. In About Good condition, the reverse shows noticeable wear, with the finer details of the wreath and the shield less distinct. The inscriptions are present but may be partially obscured due to the overall wear of the coin.
The 1882 Indian Head Cent was minted in Philadelphia, with a total mintage of approximately 14,000,000 coins. This high mintage figure reflects the coin’s widespread use and circulation during its time. Despite the large number minted, the 1882 Indian Head Cent remains a valued collectible, particularly in lower grades such as About Good. The coin’s availability and demand are influenced by both its historical significance and its role as a representative piece of late 19th-century American numismatics.
In About Good (AG) condition, the 1882 Indian Head Cent shows clear signs of circulation wear. The coin’s surface has been smoothed over time, with significant flattening of the high points in both the obverse and reverse designs. The portrait of the Native American and the details of the headdress are worn but still recognizable. The reverse design, including the wreath and shield, is also visible but less distinct due to the wear. The inscriptions on the coin may be partially faded, but the overall design remains identifiable, providing a glimpse into the historical context of the era.
The 1882 Indian Head Cent, particularly in About Good condition, serves as an important artifact of American coinage history. It represents a period of significant economic and social change and reflects the design preferences and artistic styles of the late 19th century. Collectors and numismatists value this coin not only for its historical context but also for the way it represents the evolution of American coinage and its place in the broader narrative of U.S. currency.