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The Indian Head Cent Uncirculated 1879 RB is a magnificent survivor from one of the most iconic and beloved series in American numismatics. Designed by James Barton Longacre, the Indian Head Cent series was produced from 1859 to 1909 and became a fixture in American commerce during a period of remarkable national growth and change. The 1879 issue falls into the later phase of the series, when coins were struck in bronze rather than the earlier copper-nickel alloy. In Uncirculated condition with Red-Brown (RB) designation, the 1879 Indian Head Cent preserves its original mint brilliance while exhibiting the softening hues of age, offering collectors an exceptional blend of originality, history, and aesthetic beauty.
The Indian Head Cent series traces its origins to the need for a small-denomination coin that could circulate effectively following the disruptions of the Civil War and the shortage of hard currency. James B. Longacre, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, crafted a distinctive design that has endured in popularity for over a century. The obverse features the classic portrayal of Liberty wearing a Native American headdress, an artistic fusion intended to embody American ideals rather than depict an actual Native figure. By 1879, the series had transitioned fully to a bronze composition, consisting of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, resulting in lighter, more practical coins for everyday use.
The obverse of the 1879 Indian Head Cent presents the famous profile of Liberty, facing left, adorned with a feathered headdress inscribed with the word “LIBERTY” across the band. The inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” arcs around the periphery, while the date “1879” is located below the bust. In Uncirculated Red-Brown condition, the surfaces retain a strong, original mint luster, with shades of vibrant red interspersed with soft brown tones that highlight the raised devices. The fine details of Liberty’s hair, the feathers of the headdress, and the sharpness of the lettering remain fully intact, reflecting the quality of the strike and the careful preservation of the coin over more than 140 years.
The reverse of the 1879 Indian Head Cent showcases a laurel wreath encircling the denomination “ONE CENT,” tied at the base with a bow. Above the wreath, a small shield adds a subtle yet powerful symbol of national unity and strength. On a Red-Brown Uncirculated specimen, the intricate details of the laurel leaves, the bow, and the shield are crisply rendered, with minimal or no contact marks in the fields or on the high points. The reflective nature of the fields, combined with the frosted devices, creates a beautiful visual contrast that gives the coin a lively and dynamic appearance under light, enhancing its desirability among collectors of classic U.S. coins.
The 1879 Indian Head Cent was produced exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint, with a reported mintage of 16,231,200 pieces. While this figure is relatively moderate compared to other years in the series, survival rates for high-grade examples, particularly those retaining significant red color, are much lower. Many 1879 cents entered circulation quickly and saw heavy use, resulting in substantial wear. Consequently, coins in Uncirculated condition, especially with attractive Red-Brown coloration, are in much higher demand today. The difficulty in finding original, problem-free examples from this era elevates the 1879 RB Indian Head Cent to a prized status among advanced collectors assembling high-grade type sets or complete date runs.
The Red-Brown (RB) designation is crucial in understanding the value and appeal of this coin. Copper coins are prone to environmental changes over time, often transitioning from their original bright red to various shades of brown as oxidation occurs. An RB designation indicates that the coin retains a significant portion of its original red mint color—generally between 15% and 85%—along with natural brown toning. In the case of the 1879 Indian Head Cent, the RB surfaces reveal a warm, fiery glow around the protected areas, especially within the devices and legends, while the open fields display mellowed tones that testify to the coin’s originality and careful preservation.
In terms of condition, the 1879 Indian Head Cent in Uncirculated Red-Brown is exceptionally well-preserved. The luster is full and uninterrupted across both obverse and reverse surfaces, creating a beautiful cartwheel effect when the coin is tilted under a light. There is no evidence of circulation wear, and the devices are sharply struck, with fine lines visible in Liberty’s hair and the feather details standing out in high relief. Minor contact marks, if any, are negligible and confined to inconspicuous areas, preserving the coin’s clean and attractive overall appearance. The rims are complete and bold, with no signs of damage or flattening, further reinforcing the high quality of the coin.
The Indian Head Cent series is highly popular among collectors for its rich historical connections and artistic significance. Coins like the 1879 issue bridge the post-Civil War Reconstruction era and the coming Gilded Age, representing a time when the United States was redefining its national identity and expanding its economic reach. Collectors who pursue Indian Head Cents in Uncirculated condition appreciate not only the technical aspects of preservation but also the sense of holding a piece of everyday American life from a pivotal period in history. The Red-Brown color palette adds depth and character to the coin, making each piece unique and telling its own story of survival and stewardship.
The long-term outlook for the 1879 Indian Head Cent in Uncirculated RB condition remains strong. As more collectors focus on high-grade examples of classic American series, coins with original surfaces, strong luster, and appealing coloration continue to rise in demand. The scarcity of attractive Uncirculated examples from the 1870s, coupled with the enduring popularity of the Indian Head Cent, ensures that the 1879 RB issue will maintain its status as a cornerstone of fine numismatic collections. Whether pursued as part of a complete Indian Head Cent set, included in a 19th-century type collection, or appreciated as a standalone historical artifact, the 1879 Red-Brown Indian Head Cent offers timeless beauty, tangible history, and lasting value.
The Indian Head Cent Uncirculated 1879 RB stands as a shining example of American coinage excellence, combining Longacre’s enduring design, historical resonance, and stunning preservation. With its brilliant luster, attractive Red-Brown toning, and sharp strike, it offers collectors a direct link to an era of great change and optimism in American history. As a representative of both artistry and national heritage, the 1879 Indian Head Cent in Uncirculated condition will continue to captivate numismatists and historians alike, ensuring its cherished place in the annals of American numismatics for generations to come.