Numismatic

1862 Indian Head Cent BU

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During the turbulent years of the American Civil War, the Philadelphia Mint produced this striking 1862 Indian Head Cent. Struck in a distinctive metal composition of 88 percent copper and 12 percent nickel, this coin belongs to the early era of the series, possessing a slightly different alloy and appearance than the bronze cents that would follow later in the decade. The obverse features a detailed representation of Liberty adorned in a traditional Native American feathered headdress, surrounded by the bold inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the date 1862. Designed by James B. Longacre, this imagery remains one of the most recognizable and beloved icons of early American copper coinage. On the reverse, the coin displays a clean and elegant design. The face value of ONE CENT is framed by a stylized wreath, creating a balanced and historic aesthetic. Preserved in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, this specimen allows observers to appreciate the fine details of the original engraving just as it looked when it first left the minting press over a century and a half ago.