Indian Head Cent 1897 G-VG

Just across the street from the US Capitol building, the Library of Congress was finally completed in 1897. This building had been used for storing the nation’s books since 1851. Crafty Americans continued to find ways to make money. Especially those that went to the Klondike region to find gold. All told, it was said that some $22 million worth of gold made its way out of the region. A young writer, Jack London, was among the gold seekers. In 1897, American researchers found that malaria was tied to a type of mosquito. By this time, sporting events like boxing were being filmed and showed to eager viewers across the United States. At this time, “movies” would be shown not in cinemas but rather at vaudeville shows. The first amusement park in Coney Island was opened in 1897. This would become one of the largest and most famous amusement parks to this day.

This is actually a large mintage date for the period. Over 50,000,000 Indian Head cents were minted in 1897. These coins would be circulated widely and for many decades. Even by the end of World War II, almost fifty years later, many Indian Head cents could be found in circulation. Many kept them only because they were different. Although many are worn down to the Good to Very Good grades, many can be found in higher grades due to the circulation size.

Although the mintage for circulation was very high this year, the mintage for proof coins continued below 2,000. This year is typically just as difficult to find as the rest in the 1890’s. This year is a bit more difficult to find in a full gem red condition though. Despite this, many beautiful cameo and well mirrored examples are found from this year. The year 1897 has one of the most popular misplaced digit varieties. The “1 in the Neck” shows the base of “1” sticking out of the front of Liberty’s neck. Although it is rare in high grades, it is readily found in low grades. Normally varieties are difficult to find in low grades because the variety wares off. This can be easily seen by the naked eye. If you have any questions regarding the Indian Head Cent or varieties, please contact any of our knowledgeable staff at 800-735-1311, and we’ll be happy to assist you!

• Denomination: Cent
• Year: 1897
• Diameter: 19 mm
• Mint Mark: N/A
• Thickness: 1.5 mm
• Grade: Ungraded