U.S. Mint coin reference
Indian Head cents are one of the main bridge series between early copper collecting and modern small cents. Collectors study the date, shield reverse, copper-nickel versus bronze composition, and the common-to-rare date spread. The 1877 and 1909-S are famous key dates, while many common bronze dates remain affordable in circulated grades.
Reference photos: Wikimedia Commons / public coin image sources.
Years made: 1859-1909
Denomination: One cent
Composition: Bronze 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc after 1864; earlier copper-nickel issues 1859-1864
Weight: 3.11 g bronze; 4.67 g copper-nickel
Diameter: 19.0 mm
Edge: Plain
Designer: James B. Longacre
Krause number: KM# 90a / KM# 87
Start with the date, mint mark, weight, and basic design type. Then compare the coin to trusted reference photos before assuming a variety or error. Many apparent doubled letters are machine doubling or strike damage, so the goal is to confirm die markers.
Check high points first, then fields, rims, and color. Original surfaces generally matter more than brightness. Cleaned or polished coins can look shiny but may be less desirable to advanced collectors.
Use price guides only as a starting point. Real value depends on grade, eye appeal, problem-free surfaces, certification, and recent sales for the exact date and variety.
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LoneStar Coin Guide adds original collector notes and uses outside references only as supporting research links.