-
Inventory:
Available
- Product ID: 17071
Checkout
The Indian Head Cent of 1904 is a fascinating piece of American numismatic history. Designed by James Barton Longacre, the Indian Head Cent series was introduced in 1859 and continued until 1909. This series is celebrated for its artistic design and historical significance, reflecting the cultural and economic context of the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The 1904 issue, in particular, provides insight into a period of rapid growth and change in America.
The obverse of the 1904 Indian Head Cent features a left-facing profile of Liberty wearing a Native American headdress. This design is both iconic and symbolic, representing a blend of classical imagery and Native American motifs. The detailed rendering of Liberty’s headdress, with its individual feathers and intricate headband inscribed with the word "LIBERTY," showcases Longacre’s skill as an engraver. Below the portrait, the date "1904" is prominently displayed. In Fine condition, Liberty’s profile and the headdress retain much of their detail, although they show signs of wear that add to the coin’s historical charm.
The reverse of the 1904 Indian Head Cent is equally rich in detail. It features a laurel wreath encircling the denomination "ONE CENT," with a Union shield at the top. This design was introduced in 1860 and replaced the original reverse design of a wreath of laurel and oak. The laurel wreath and Union shield symbolize strength and unity, reflecting the national sentiment during the post-Civil War era. In Fine condition, the wreath and shield are still visible, although they exhibit signs of circulation wear that highlight the coin’s journey through history.
The 1904 Indian Head Cent was minted in Philadelphia, the primary mint of the United States at the time. The Philadelphia Mint has a long and storied history, producing some of the most iconic coins in American numismatics. The 1904 Indian Head Cent had a mintage of approximately 61,326,198, making it one of the more common dates in the series. Despite this high mintage, each coin carries its own unique history and character, making it a valuable piece for collectors.
The composition of the 1904 Indian Head Cent is primarily bronze, consisting of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc. This alloy was introduced in 1864, replacing the earlier copper-nickel composition. The bronze alloy was chosen for its durability and ability to hold fine detail, ensuring that the coins could withstand extensive circulation. In Fine condition, the 1904 Indian Head Cent typically exhibits a brown patina, which adds to its historical appeal and highlights the quality of the materials used in its production.
The Indian Head Cent series is renowned for its artistic excellence and cultural significance. Longacre’s design skillfully merges classical imagery with Native American motifs, creating a coin that is distinctly American. The 1904 issue exemplifies these qualities, serving as a testament to Longacre’s vision and the era’s artistic standards. Collectors and historians value the 1904 Indian Head Cent not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its historical context and the narrative it represents within U.S. numismatics.
The historical context of the Indian Head Cent series adds to its significance. These coins were in circulation during a time of significant growth and transformation in the United States, encompassing the Civil War, Reconstruction, and the early 20th century. The 1904 Indian Head Cent, as part of this larger narrative, offers insights into the economic and social dynamics of the time. This backdrop enhances the coin’s value as both a collectible and a piece of American heritage.
In Fine condition, the 1904 Indian Head Cent displays moderate wear, with the major design elements still visible but showing signs of use. The details of Liberty’s headdress and the wreath on the reverse are discernible, although they reflect the coin’s extensive history of circulation. The fields, or flat areas, of the coin exhibit some signs of wear and handling, adding to the character and historical appeal of the piece. Collectors appreciate these coins for their ability to tell a story of the past while still preserving the artistry of their design.
The 1904 Indian Head Cent is a significant piece for collectors, representing a period of artistic achievement and historical importance. Its unique design, historical context, and the enduring appeal of the Indian Head series make it a cornerstone of any collection. The coin’s balance of aesthetic appeal and historical significance ensures its lasting desirability among numismatists. The 1904 issue, with its blend of artistry and history, continues to captivate and inspire, making it a cherished artifact of America’s numismatic heritage.
The Indian Head Cent series remains a highlight of American numismatics, and the 1904 issue is a particularly significant chapter in this legacy. Collectors prize these coins for their artistic excellence, historical narratives, and the connections they provide to America’s past. The 1904 Indian Head Cent, with its detailed design and rich history, is a testament to the enduring appeal of the series and the vision of James Barton Longacre. It serves as a reminder of the nation’s journey and the artistry that has defined its coinage, making it a treasured addition to any collection.