Numismatic

1862 Indian Head Cent VG

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The 1862 Indian Head Cent represents an intriguing era in American coining history. Struck in Philadelphia during the second year of the American Civil War, this one-cent coin features a unique metal composition of 88 percent copper and 12 percent nickel. This specific alloy gives the coin a distinct look and feel that sets it apart from the pure copper or bronze cents of other eras. Designed by James B. Longacre, the obverse of the coin displays a depiction of Liberty wearing a Native American feathered headdress, with the date 1862 positioned at the bottom. The reverse features the simple and bold denomination "ONE CENT" nestled inside a decorative wreath. This particular specimen survives in Very Good condition, showing honest wear from its time in circulation while retaining the essential elements of its historic mid-nineteenth-century design.