-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 17081
Checkout
The Indian Head Cent of 1859 marks the beginning of a beloved series in American numismatics. Designed by James B. Longacre, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint from 1844 to 1869, this coin introduced a design that would become iconic. The 1859 Indian Head Cent is particularly notable as it represents the only year with a unique reverse design, making it a distinctive and sought-after piece for collectors. Despite its Almost Uncirculated (AU) condition, the 1859 cent retains much of its original detail and luster, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of the mid-19th century U.S. Mint.
The obverse of the 1859 Indian Head Cent features the profile of Liberty wearing a Native American headdress. This design was both innovative and symbolic, merging the concept of American liberty with the imagery of Native American culture. Liberty’s hair is adorned with a headband inscribed with "LIBERTY," and the date "1859" is prominently displayed at the bottom. In Almost Uncirculated condition, the details of Liberty’s face, the headdress feathers, and the inscription remain sharp and clear, preserving the coin’s historical and artistic value.
The reverse of the 1859 Indian Head Cent is unique to this year and features a simple laurel wreath encircling the denomination "ONE CENT." This reverse design was replaced in 1860 with the more familiar oak wreath and shield design, making the 1859 cent stand out in the series. The laurel wreath is elegantly detailed, with each leaf carefully engraved. In AU condition, the wreath and lettering are well-preserved, exhibiting minimal wear and maintaining much of the coin's original luster.
The 1859 Indian Head Cent was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the primary facility for U.S. coin production at the time. The Philadelphia Mint did not use mint marks on its coins during this period, so there is no mint mark on the 1859 cent. The mintage for this coin was approximately 36,400,000 pieces, a substantial number that reflects the widespread use and distribution of the cent in mid-19th century America. Despite this high mintage, the 1859 Indian Head Cent remains highly collectible due to its unique reverse design and historical significance.
The composition of the 1859 Indian Head Cent is another important aspect of its history. The coin is made from a copper-nickel alloy, consisting of 88% copper and 12% nickel. This alloy, sometimes referred to as "white cent," gave the coin a lighter color and increased its durability compared to earlier copper coins. The 1859 cent weighs 4.67 grams and has a diameter of 19 millimeters. The use of copper-nickel alloy for the cent was a relatively new innovation at the time, reflecting advances in minting technology and material science.
In Almost Uncirculated condition, the 1859 Indian Head Cent exhibits very light wear on the highest points of the design, but retains much of its original detail and mint luster. The coin’s surfaces are generally smooth and free of major blemishes, with only minor signs of handling. The obverse shows sharp details in Liberty’s profile and the headdress feathers, while the reverse maintains crisp details in the laurel wreath and denomination. The overall appearance of the coin is pleasing and retains the eye appeal that makes it a valuable addition to any collection.
The Indian Head Cent series, beginning with the 1859 issue, is celebrated for its artistic design and historical context. James B. Longacre’s depiction of Liberty with a Native American headdress was a bold and innovative choice that has endured through the years. The introduction of the copper-nickel composition in 1859 marked a significant development in U.S. coinage, reflecting changes in both technology and economics. The 1859 Indian Head Cent, with its unique design and historical context, remains a cherished piece among numismatists.
Collectors value the 1859 Indian Head Cent not only for its historical significance but also for its artistic design. The unique reverse design, used only in this year, adds to the coin’s allure and makes it a key date for collectors. In Almost Uncirculated condition, the coin offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing collectors to appreciate the craftsmanship and symbolism of the era. The 1859 Indian Head Cent continues to be a prized piece in any collection, representing the beginning of a classic series in American coinage.
Owning an 1859 Indian Head Cent in Almost Uncirculated condition allows collectors to possess a piece of American numismatic history that is both beautiful and historically significant. The well-preserved details and minimal wear on the coin highlight the artistry and innovation of the period. 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 mid-19th century. The 1859 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 1859 Indian Head Cent, despite its unique reverse design, 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 1859 cent, with its blend of classic design and historical context, continues to captivate and inspire collectors and historians alike.