Numismatic

1863 Indian Head Cent XF

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During a pivotal moment in American history, the Philadelphia Mint produced this intriguing 1863 one-cent piece. Unlike the pure copper cents of later decades, this Civil War-era issue features a unique alloy consisting of 88 percent copper and 12 percent nickel, giving these early Indian Head cents a distinctively lighter, thicker appearance. The obverse features a depiction of Liberty adorned in a traditional Native American feathered headdress. The word LIBERTY is inscribed upon the band, while the year 1863 is boldly displayed beneath the portrait, flanked by the words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. On the reverse, the coin features the denomination ONE CENT centered within a lush wreath. This particular specimen survives in Extra Fine condition, showcasing the intricate details of James B. Longacre's classic mid-nineteenth-century design with remarkable clarity.