Numismatic

1887 Indian Head Cent Good+

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The 1887 Indian Head Cent is a fascinating artifact of late nineteenth-century American coinage. Struck in Philadelphia, this one-cent piece is composed of a traditional alloy containing 95 percent copper, with the remaining 5 percent made of tin and zinc. Despite its age and a grading of Good, the coin retains the essential elements of its classic nineteenth-century design. On the obverse, the coin displays a distinctive depiction of Liberty wearing an ornate feather headdress. Surrounding this central figure is the bold inscription reading UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. This design, created by James B. Longacre, offers a compelling look at how national symbols were envisioned during this era. The reverse side of the coin features a simple yet elegant layout. The denomination ONE CENT is clearly displayed, nestled within a detailed wreath. This combination of a symbolic obverse and a functional, decorated reverse makes the 1887 issue a captivating study for anyone curious about the evolution of United States copper currency.