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The Indian Head Cent of 1887 is a remarkable piece of American numismatic history. It was designed by James B. Longacre, who was the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint from 1844 to 1869. The Indian Head Cent series is one of the most beloved and widely collected series in U.S. coinage. Despite its condition, an About Good (AG) 1887 Indian Head Cent holds historical and artistic value, providing insight into the era in which it was minted.
The obverse of the 1887 Indian Head Cent features a left-facing profile of Liberty, who is adorned with a Native American headdress. This iconic design is meant to symbolize the merging of Native American culture with American liberty. The word "LIBERTY" is inscribed on the headband of the headdress, and the date "1887" is placed at the bottom of the coin. Even in AG condition, where the coin shows significant wear, the major details of Liberty's profile and the date remain identifiable, preserving its historical essence.
The reverse of the 1887 Indian Head Cent displays a wreath of oak leaves, which surrounds the denomination "ONE CENT." A small shield sits atop the wreath, symbolizing the strength and protection of the nation. This design was introduced in 1860, replacing the earlier laurel wreath, and continued to be used throughout the Indian Head Cent series. In AG condition, the reverse design elements, although heavily worn, are still recognizable enough to appreciate the coin's original artistic intent.
The 1887 Indian Head Cent was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the main production facility for U.S. coins at the time. The Philadelphia Mint did not use mint marks during this period, so there is no mint mark on the coin. The mintage for the 1887 Indian Head Cent was substantial, with approximately 45,223,523 pieces produced. This high mintage makes the coin relatively common, but it still holds significant value due to its age and historical context.
The composition of the 1887 Indian Head Cent is an important aspect of its history. The coin is made of a bronze alloy, consisting of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc. This composition was adopted in 1864, replacing the earlier copper-nickel alloy. The bronze alloy gave the coin a distinctive reddish-brown color, which is still evident even in well-worn examples. The coin weighs 3.11 grams and has a diameter of 19 millimeters, standard specifications for Indian Head Cents of this era.
In About Good (AG) condition, the 1887 Indian Head Cent exhibits significant wear from extensive circulation. On the obverse, the finer details of Liberty’s profile and the headdress are heavily worn, with many elements smoothed out from years of handling. However, the basic outline of Liberty’s head and the date "1887" are still visible. On the reverse, the oak wreath and shield show considerable wear, but the "ONE CENT" denomination remains discernible, allowing the coin to retain its identity and historical significance.
The Indian Head Cent series is celebrated for its unique design and the era it represents in American history. James B. Longacre’s depiction of Liberty wearing a Native American headdress was a bold and creative choice that has stood the test of time. The introduction of the bronze composition in 1864 marked a significant development in U.S. coinage, reflecting changes in technology and economics. The 1887 Indian Head Cent, with its historical context and enduring design, is a cherished piece among numismatists.
Collectors value the 1887 Indian Head Cent not only for its historical significance but also for its artistic design. Even in AG condition, the coin offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing collectors to appreciate the craftsmanship and symbolism of the era. The coin's journey through countless transactions adds to its allure, making it a fascinating piece of American history. Despite its high mintage, finding an 1887 Indian Head Cent in collectible condition can still be a rewarding challenge for numismatists.
The 1887 Indian Head Cent remains a popular and accessible entry point for collectors interested in 19th-century U.S. coinage. Its classic design, combined with its historical significance, makes it a sought-after piece in numismatic collections. The coin's wear tells the story of its long circulation, adding to its charm and historical value. As a representative of the Indian Head Cent series, the 1887 cent continues to captivate and inspire collectors and historians alike.
Owning an 1887 Indian Head Cent in AG condition allows collectors to possess a piece of American numismatic history. The worn surfaces of the coin bear witness to the passage of time and the many hands it has passed through. The coin's design and composition reflect important developments in U.S. minting practices, while its historical context offers insight into the economic and cultural environment of the late 19th century. The 1887 Indian Head Cent remains a cherished artifact, symbolizing the enduring legacy of American coinage.
The Indian Head Cent series holds a special place in the hearts of collectors due to its iconic design and rich history. The 1887 Indian Head Cent, despite its wear, stands as a testament to the artistry and innovation of the period. The combination of historical significance, artistic design, and the personal history of each coin makes the Indian Head Cent series a favorite among numismatists. The 1887 cent, with its blend of classic design and historical context, continues to be a prized piece in any collection.