Numismatic

1862 Indian Head Cent AU

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During the turbulent years of the American Civil War, the Philadelphia Mint produced this intriguing 1862 Indian Head Cent. Struck in an alloy of 88 percent copper and 12 percent nickel, this specific metal composition gives the coin a distinctively lighter appearance than the pure copper cents that would follow in later years. This particular specimen survives in an impressive Almost Uncirculated condition, preserving the fine details of its mid nineteenth century craftsmanship. The obverse features a depiction of Liberty wearing a traditional Native American feathered headdress, with the word LIBERTY clearly inscribed across the band. Encircling this central figure is the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, with the year 1862 anchored at the bottom. Designed by James B. Longacre, this imagery remains one of the most recognizable icons of early United States coinage. On the reverse, the coin displays a simple yet elegant design. The denomination ONE CENT is boldly struck in the center, framed by a decorative wreath. This clean, classic layout reflects the utilitarian yet artistic approach to minor coinage during a pivotal era in American history.