Numismatic

1873 Indian Head Cent Open 3 Good

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The 1873 Indian Head Cent is a captivating relic of American coinage, showcasing a design that defined the nation's minor currency for half a century. Struck in Philadelphia, this particular coin is composed of an alloy containing 95 percent copper, with the remaining 5 percent made of tin and zinc. It represents the classic composition that replaced the earlier, thicker copper-nickel cents. On the obverse, the design features a stylized representation of Liberty wearing a traditional Native American feather headdress. The word LIBERTY is inscribed on the band of the headdress, while the year 1873 is clearly visible at the bottom. This specific issue is known for the Open 3 variety, which refers to the spacing and shape of the final digit in the date. The reverse of the coin displays a simple yet elegant wreath enclosing the denomination. Boldly struck in the center are the words ONE CENT, framed by the foliage. This specimen has survived in Good condition, showing honest wear from its time circulating through the hands of late nineteenth-century Americans.