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The Indian Head Cent of 1886, Type II, is a notable coin in American numismatic history. Designed by James Barton Longacre, the Indian Head Cent series is highly regarded for its artistic merit and historical significance. The 1886 issue, in particular, stands out due to the changes made to the design and the circumstances surrounding its production. This coin was minted during a period of significant change and growth in the United States, reflecting the nation's evolving identity and aspirations.
The obverse of the 1886 Indian Head Cent features the iconic image of Liberty wearing a Native American headdress. This design, a departure from the classical representations of Liberty seen on earlier U.S. coinage, was intended to symbolize the spirit of America. The headband of the headdress bears the word "LIBERTY," and the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircles the portrait. The date "1886" is prominently displayed at the bottom. The Type II design is distinguished by the positioning and shape of the headdress feathers, which are more upright and closer together compared to the Type I design. This subtle change adds a layer of interest and complexity to the coin, making it a favorite among collectors.
The reverse of the 1886 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, was a fitting choice for a nation that had recently endured the Civil War and was continuing to grow and develop. The shield represents the Union, reinforcing themes of unity and endurance. This reverse design remained consistent throughout the Indian Head Cent series, providing a sense of continuity and stability.
The 1886 Indian Head Cent was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, the primary facility for coin production in the United States at that time. The absence of a mint mark indicates its origin. The mintage for the 1886 Indian Head Cent was approximately 17,650,000 pieces. This relatively high mintage means that the coin is more accessible to collectors today, although its historical significance and the unique features of the Type II design ensure it remains highly sought after.
The composition of the 1886 Indian Head Cent is bronze, consisting of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc. This alloy, adopted in 1864, replaced 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 Good to Very Good (G-VG) condition, such as the 1886 Indian Head Cent, exhibit significant wear, with major details still visible but worn. Good condition indicates heavy wear, with the design outlines visible but lacking detail. Very Good condition shows moderate to considerable wear, with more design elements visible but still well-worn. Despite the wear, these coins are valued for their historical significance and the story they tell about the period in which they were circulated.
The Indian Head Cent series, including the 1886 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 1886 Indian Head Cent, Type II, is a significant piece of American numismatic history. 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 1886 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. The changes in the design, particularly the differences between Type I and Type II, add to its allure and make it a standout piece in any collection.