Numismatic

1872 Indian Head Cent Good

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The 1872 Indian Head Cent represents a fascinating chapter in American coinage. Struck in Philadelphia, this one-cent piece is composed of an alloy containing 95 percent copper, with the remaining 5 percent made of tin and zinc. Despite its age and a circulated grade of Good, the essential elements of its historic design remain visible to the curious observer. On the obverse, the coin features a depiction of Liberty wearing a traditional Native American feather headdress. The word "LIBERTY" is nestled within the band of the headdress, while the legend "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" arches around the profile, anchored by the clear date "1872" at the bottom. The reverse side presents a detailed wreath enclosing the denomination "ONE CENT" in bold lettering. At the top of the wreath sits a small shield, while at the very bottom, a bundle of arrows is bound together by a ribbon tied in a bow. Designed by James B. Longacre, this intricate combination of symbols offers a rich visual experience for anyone exploring nineteenth-century American currency.