Numismatic

1897 Indian Head Cent Good (1 in Neck)

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The 1897 Indian Head cent offers a captivating glimpse into late nineteenth-century American coinage, particularly through a celebrated design anomaly. Struck in a metal composition of 95 percent copper, with the remaining 5 percent consisting of tin and zinc, this coin represents a classic era of United States minor coinage. This specific piece is noted for the '1 in Neck' variety, a distinct feature where a digit from the date appears misplaced, embedded within the neck of the obverse figure. On the obverse, the design showcases a representation of Liberty adorned in a traditional feather headdress. The legible inscriptions read 'UNITED STATES' alongside the date '1897'. The reverse side keeps the presentation simple and elegant, displaying the denomination 'ONE CENT' nestled inside a decorative wreath. Created by designer James B. Longacre, this Philadelphia-minted copper penny survives in Good condition, offering a tangible connection to the artistry and minting variations of the period.