Numismatic

1878 Indian Head Cent XF

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The year 1878 marked a notable chapter for the United States minor coinage, producing a classic penny that remains a favorite for observers of American numismatic artistry. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this particular issue is composed of an alloy containing 95 percent copper, with the remaining 5 percent made of tin and zinc. With a total mintage of 5,797,500, surviving examples in Extra Fine condition preserve the sharp details of a design that circulated during a transformative era in American history. Designed by James B. Longacre, the obverse of the coin features a profile of Liberty wearing a traditional Native American feather headdress. The words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" wrap around the portrait, with the date "1878" anchored at the bottom. This representation of Liberty remains one of the most recognizable and enduring images on small-denomination American currency. On the reverse, the coin displays the denomination "ONE CENT" positioned directly in the center. This text is encircled by a detailed wreath, which is crowned by a small shield at the very top. At the base of the wreath, a bundle of arrows is bound together by a ribbon tied in a bow, completing a symmetrical and symbolic design that defined the Indian Head series.