Numismatic

1861 Indian Head Cent VG

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The 1861 Indian Head Cent offers a fascinating glimpse into the early years of one of America's most recognizable minor coin series. Struck in Philadelphia during a pivotal year in United States history, this particular issue is composed of an alloy containing 88 percent copper and 12 percent nickel, giving it a slightly lighter color than the pure copper cents that would follow later in the decade. Designed by James B. Longacre, the obverse of the coin features a depiction of Liberty wearing a traditional Native American feather headdress, surrounded by the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and the date "1861" at the bottom. The reverse design keeps to a simple and elegant theme, displaying the denomination "ONE CENT" nestled within a decorative wreath. Surviving in Very Good condition, this ungraded cent displays the honest wear of a coin that circulated actively. It remains a captivating artifact for anyone interested in the evolution of American numismatic design and the unique metal compositions of the mid nineteenth century.