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Many readers are curious about their Indian Head penny values.
The Indian Head penny was designed by U.S. Mint Chief Engraver James B. Longacre — who designed many popular coins during his tenure at the Mint from 1844 through 1869.
Indian Head cents were first struck in 1859 and they circulated for many years after the last ones were made in 1909.
Through the years, lots of people hung onto their Indian Head pennies — storing them away in drawers, boxes, and trunks.
These days, millions of Indian Head pennies can be found in old estates, and many people receive Indian Head pennies as family heirlooms which are passed on down through the generations.
To help answer your questions, here’s a little about the value of Indian Head pennies…
Indian Head Penny Values
Indian Head pennies were struck by the hundreds of millions. Therefore, as a coin series, they are not rare.
In fact, many dates in the Indian Head penny series are worth less than $3 to $5 in typical, circulated condition.
Prices increase upwards of $35 to $50 and up for uncirculated examples of common Indian Head pennies.
Most Indian Head pennies struck during the 1880s on through the early 1900s are, in fact, the most commonly encountered Indian Head pennies and are generally worth the least.
While Indian Head pennies are generally not considered rare, there are scarce dates of Indian Head pennies worth keeping an eye open for! These scarce dates range in value from $25 up to hundreds of dollars apiece.
Rare Indian Head Pennies Worth Collecting
So, which are the scarce Indian Head pennies you should be on the lookout for?
Consider these:
- 1864 Indian Head Penny with “L” on Ribbon: $47 to $500 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1866: $43 to $320 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1867: $42 to $350 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1868: $35 to $325 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1869: $65 to $650 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1870: $40 to $775 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1871 : $55 to $700 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1872: $80 to $1,000 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1873 Doubled Liberty Indian Head Penny: $150 to $12,000 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1877: $700 to $4,000 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1878: $25 to $320 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1888 Over 7 Indian Head Penny: $1,000 to $45,000 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1894 Doubled Date Indian Head Penny: $20 to $500 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1908-S Indian Head Penny: $70 to $325 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1909-S Indian Head Penny: $365 to $1,000 in Good to Mint-State 63
As you can see, there are several Indian Head pennies that are indeed worth a “pretty penny.” However, these dates are also among the most scarce in the Indian Head penny series!
For that reason, you should always double-check the date of any Indian Head penny you happen upon — to see if you have one of the rare dates.
Did you know the color of an Indian Head penny affects its value? Here are some more interesting facts about Indian Head pennies!
Common-Date Indian Head Penny Values
Now, you may be wondering what your Indian Head penny is worth if it is not one of the scarcest specimens mentioned above.
What are Indian Head penny values, if dated from the 1880s through the 1900s and not well-worn?
What if you have an earlier Indian Head cent that you don’t see above?
The following list of Indian Head penny values includes all of the other coins in the series — so if you don’t find the value of your Indian Head cent above, you should find it here:
- 1859: $11 to $500 in Good to Mint-State 63
1860: $8 to $200 in Good to Mint-State 63- 1861: $18 to $300 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1862: $8 to $170 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1863: $8 to $175 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1864 Copper-Nickel Indian Head Penny (thicker and lighter in color than most copper cents made after this date): $16 to $275 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1864 Bronze No “L” Indian Head Penny: $12 to $125 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1865: $11 to $130 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1873 Open 3 Indian Head Penny: $15 to $300 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1873 Closed 3 Indian Head Penny: $18 to $500 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1874: $15 to $200 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1875: $15 to $200 in Good to Mint State 63
- 1876: $25 to $475 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1879: $6 to $115 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1880: $3 to $115 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1881: $2.50 to $75 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1882: $2.50 to $75 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1883: $2.50 to $75 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1884: $2.50 to $100 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1885: $5 to $160 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1886 Variety 1 Indian Head Penny: $4 to 200 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1886 Variety 2 Indian Head Penny: $5 to 420 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1887: $1.50 to $60 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1888: $1.50 to $100 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1889: $1.50 to $60 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1890: $1.50 to $60 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1891: $1.50 to $60 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1892: $1.50 to $60 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1893: $1.50 to $60 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1894: $2 to $100 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1895: $1.50 to $50 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1896: $1.50 to $50 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1897: $1.50 to $50 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1898: $1.50 to $50 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1899: $1.50 to $50 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1900: $1 to $45 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1901 : $1 to $45 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1902: $1 to $45 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1903: $1 to $45 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1904: $1 to $45 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1905: $1 to $45 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1906: $1 to $45 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1907: $1 to $45 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1908: $1 to $45 in Good to Mint-State 63
- 1909: $1 to $45 in Good to Mint-State 63
*The Indian Head penny values listed above are for problem-free Indian Head cents that have not been cleaned, bent, or otherwise damaged and are free of holes, stains, and discoloration. Indian Head cents grading less than Good-4 are worth less than prices referenced above, while pieces in grades better than Mint-State 63 are usually worth more.
See the latest prices for Indian Head cents.
I’m the Coin Editor here at TheFunTimesGuide. My love for coins began when I was 11 years old. I primarily collect and study U.S. coins produced during the 20th century. I’m a member of the American Numismatic Association (ANA) and the Numismatic Literary Guild (NLG) and have won multiple awards from the NLG for my work as a coin journalist. I’m also the editor at the Florida United Numismatists Club (FUN Topics magazine), and author of Images of America: The United States Mint in Philadelphia (a book that explores the colorful history of the Philadelphia Mint). I’ve contributed hundreds of articles for various coin publications including COINage, The Numismatist, Numismatic News, Coin Dealer Newsletter, Coin Values, and CoinWeek. I’ve authored nearly 1,000 articles here at The Fun Times Guide to Coins (many of them with over 50K shares), and I welcome your coin questions in the comments below!
I have an 1879 Indian Head Penny, and i would like to know how much it is worth. I also have 1900, 1887 indian head pennies, and would also like to know how much they are as well.
Hi, Rebecca —
Assuming your coins are undamaged and in typical, circulated grades, the 1879 Indian Head cent is worth around $5 to $10. The 1887 and 1900 Indian Head pennies are worth closer to $2 to $5 each.
I have an 1888 indian head penny which I believe to be an 1888/7 penny which has a 7 stamped in the outer rim under the last eight. It also has another stamp over the united but hard to tell what it is. I have enlarged the coin and can see the 7 which is very small in the rim and wondered if that is what makes it rare. photos on request..
Hi, Tommy —
It’s probable you do have the 1888/7 Indian cent, but I urge you to check out this web page to get a better idea as to what an 1888/7 Indian cent looks like: https://www.fly-inclub.org/1888over7analysis.htm
If you do have the 1888/7 Indian cent, you have a valuable coin indeed! It’s worth $1,000 and up even in well-worn grades.
As for the other marking, it’s hard to say what’s going on. If it looks like a straight or squiggly line, it may be a die crack. Die cracks result from a damage to the die (the stamp which imprints the design) and often make coins more valuable. However, if it appears to be a random design or letter, then it was placed there by a private individual, and that would actually lessen the value.
All the best!
I have an Indian head penny and it looks like the pictures above but the date says 1835. Is that possible? I considered it being an 8 and not a 3 but it clearly looks like a 3.
I have several indian head pennies. one or two have developed green tarnish. Will it help or hurt to gently clean them?
Hi, Jim –In most cases, anything done to the coins will more than likely hurt them rather than help them. I do suggest a couple things if you’re interested in trying to remove the green:If the green was caused by PVC from a coin holder, you’re best to remove the gunk with acetone. PLEASE, use acetone very carefully and don’t breathe the fumes. Make sure you follow all the directions on the packaging. If, however, the green is oxidation that belongs to corrosion on the coin, there really is no ‘safe’ way to remove this as there will still be pock marks or porosity left behind.Whatever you do, don’t scrub the coin or dip the coin in vinegar, baking soda, jeweler’s cleaner, or any other abrasive or caustic chemicals! Copper is very chemically reactive, and most attempts to improve the color or appearance of the coin leaves the coin worse off.
So, What is a 1904 worth in set of 2?
Hi, Ren —
You have two 1904s? Each is worth about $2 to $3.
i have a 1944 “S” bronze penny. Or at least looks bronze. Does this coin hold any value.
Thanks for your question, Tony. Yes, your coin does hold some extra value, though it’s minimal. 1944-S cents are pretty common and worth about 3 to 5 cents each.
Hey Joshua! My mother has an 1888 Indian Head Penny she found in front of her apartment. I haven’t seen it yet but she said it’s in good condition. Can you tell me if this could possibly be worth anything?
Thanks!
Tammy
Cool! Thanks for your question, Tammy.
Yes, your mother’s 1888 Indian Head cent is definitely worth more than face value. It all depends on the condition. Hopefully, the coin is without any porosity, isn’t black, and has not been cleaned or damaged.
‘Good’ is an actual coin grading term referring to a very well-worn coin. Your mom’s definition of ‘good ‘ may be different, however. But to give you a rough guide, assuming her coin has typical amounts of wear for a penny of its age and has no signs of damage, it’s worth $2 to $5.
hey Joshua I found an 1864L penny in my field. Everything is legible with little wear . The coin is a little darkgreen. 1st could this be cleaned with acetone and do you think it is work more than a few cents. Thanks in advance
My mother in law just gave her son,his father’s collection.
25-30 indian head pennies.start date 1860-1900.is it worth more to a collector if they are all in a book ?? rather than apiece ??
Hi, Teresa —
Great question. In general, an album not only is a more appealing way for most coin collectors to display and organize their coin collections, but in many cases it can increase the value (even if only slightly) – especially in the case of a coin series like Indian Head cents, which are usually collected by date.
Still though, the actual value will be worth the sum of its parts, and the value of the coin collection in question will vary based on the overall grade (condition) of each of the coins within.
hi my name is chris , i have a 1994 D penny it looks like it is zinc or steel and i sent it off about 6 years ago they just said no grade have u heard of this or seen 1 if so does it have any value?
hi my name is chris , i have a 1994 D penny it looks like it is zinc or steel and i sent it off about 6 years ago they just said no grade have u heard of this or seen 1 if so does it have any value?
how much is a 1843 Indian penny worth?
how much is a 1843 Indian penny worth?
The worth of Indian Head Pennies was dissapointing. I have been collecting coins since I was in my teens. My Indian Head Penny is in really good condition. My grandmother heard as a little girl, they were not going to be made anymore. She saved her pennies. When she found out about my coin collection, she gave me one. I felt elated…today I look and find it’s not worth much in monetary value, but priceless to me.
My Indian head coin is only worth a dollar. it is from 1900 and i don’t know much about it.. probably because i’m 13..
ALEJANDO: I HAVE A NUMBER OF OLD BUFFALO NICKLE’S AND 2, OLD DIMES FROM 1903, 1934, AND OLD DOLLAR BILLS SILVER WITH THE BLUE INK WHAT TYPE OF VALUE DO THEY HOLD
THE BILLS ARE 1, ONE DOLLAR BILL 1, FIVE DOLLAR BILL AND 1, TEN DOLLAR BILL. ?
I have an 1897 Indian Head penny the obverse is in great condition, but the reverse is completely smooth other than a few scratches. It doesn’t appear to have ever been struck on the reverse side. I would like some imput as I searched and searched and didn’t find any other examples of this.
JG,
If you’d like, you can post a pic here on the message board for us to further verify, but based on your description, it sounds like it is a normally struck 1897 Indian Head cent that had been mutilated.
I have an 1888 over 7 .i am not sure where or how to have it graded, kind of scared to send it off ,what do you think any help would be appreciated
I have 3 1955-D wheat pennies are they worth anything? I have 71 wheat pennies and the oldest one is 1955 and the lowest is 1920. I also have a1907 penny. I thought I read something about a 1943 wheat penny is worth some money. Please let me know. Thanks Debbie
Hi, Debbie –
1955-D Lincoln cents are worth around 5 cents each. A 1920 is worth 10 to 20 cents, and a 1907 Indian Head cent is worth about $1 to $2.
1943 steel Lincoln cents are worth 10 to 25 cents each; only the copper ones (which don’t stick to magnets and are highly rare) are worth a substantial amount of money.
i also have a 1907 indian head penny….can u tell me anything about its value? ken in strafford
Hi, Michele,
A 1907 Indian Head cent is worth around $2 to $5.
Thanks for your question.
Is a India Rupee worth anything?
I have a very worn,very thin coin that looks just like my other Indian head pennies.It is clearly dated 1803-can this be a legitimate coin? And,if so-what kind of value are we looking at?
Guy,
Would you please post a pic of your coin so we can tell what it is? Thanks!
I hv a similar coin but its only the front side..possibly a plate for printing?..can sumone elaborate on the rarity of this coin or the authenticity…?7
Hello, Nesio –
Your piece appears to be a type of privately minted token made to replicate the semblance of the Indian Head cent, which was struck from 1859 through 1909. Such pieces as yours would have a value of a couple dollars perhaps to a person who specializes in tokens and the like. Thanks for your question!
I have a 10 dollar indian head gold coin that came in a red box lined with red fabric. I would like to know if this is considered a proof coin
There are proof 1913 Indian Head $10 gold coins, however the fact that yours is in a box doesn’t make it a proof coin. Proof coins are struck on polished planchets (coin blanks) with specially prepared dies to make the coin sharper in image than circulation strikes. If you could post an image of your coin here in the comments forum so we could see if your coin is a proof. Thanks!
The coin is 1913 indian head never been used still in box
Hello, I received an Indian head penny in change and I would like to know if it is valuable. It is dated 1860, is quite clear still, but does have a scratch across it. Thanks!
Hi, Betty –
Nice find! An 1860 Indian Head cent with a scratch across its surface would still have a value of at least $3 or $4.
hi i found a 1908 “s” stamped Indian head penny with hardly any wear but it is dirty. not rusty or mis-colored just dark around the indents. what could this be worth?
Hello, Jeremy –
Great find! Depending on the exact condition, your 1908-S Indian Head cent is likely worth between $50 and $150, more or less.
I have an 1864 L Indian head cent,which is DDO. Date,Head,Feathers. Also DDR, with arrows all doubled. Also has die cracks on the obverse. Coin is about XF.Try as I may, I have not been able to find one anywhere like it.If anyone knows about this coin,please let me know.Is it one of a kind? Thanks, Dean
have a dime silver on one side and copper color on the other , is it worth something ?
I have a 1894 indian head stamped normally on the front, slightly out of round and the only markings on the back is the word DOBSON any idea of what I have?
It sounds like you have what was a regular 1894 Indian Head cent with a reverse that was polished smooth (probably with a strong abrasive, like sand paper) and then counterstamped or etched by an individual. Either Dobson was an ordinary person or perhaps the name of a store or service provider of some sort.
Everywhere I read about 1908 and 1909 pennies, I hear they were the only Indian head pennies produced with mint marks. I have a 1908 penny that has no mint mark at all. The penny is in very good shape, showing little wear. This is a good indication that the mint mark has not worn out. I see no trace of a mint mark at all. What do I have here? Is it an undocumented 1908 no mint mark penny? How do we find out how many 1908 no mint mark pennies were made?
Hi, Eddie –
Great question. It is true that 1908 and 1909 were the only years that Indian Head pennies were made with a mint mark, but not all pennies from those years had them. In fact, most did not. Only 1,115,000 1908 pennies have the S mint mark, signifying that it was made in San Francisco. Conversely, more than 32 million 1908 pennies were made at the Philadelphia mint, which did not include a mint mark on its coins at the time. Your coin, given the description you provide, is worth around $7 to $10.
For more on mint marks, check this post out: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/mint_marks/
I have a 1894 indian head penny dbl dated. Decent condition. Liberty is readable and date. Greenish from in the ground. Asking 500.00 …716 410 1361
I have an Indian Head Cent collection and I have recently purchased a Microscope to examine these cents more closely. I noticed on one of my uncirculated cents ( a 1906 example ) the Date as well as other letters on the obverse seem to be Doubled. I have no knowledge of a 1906 Indian Head Penny example that is considered a Double Die. I have taken many pictures from different angles and they all seem to show Doubling. Please help me if you can. Thank you very much for your time and interest.
Hi, Doug –
If you could would you mind posting a few photos here in the comments section?
In all likelihood, it would actually be a case of machine doubling, which is a “doubling” error caused by the way the coin was struck, not the way the design was set into the die (which would result in a doubled die coin); in these cases the value isn’t usually increased.
However, maybe a look at the photos will reveal that the case is a doubled die. Fingers crossed.
I have about 300 Indian Head pennies in my collection. I would like to sell them but not on Ebay, anyone know where I could sell them.
Yes, you want to take them to your nearest coin dealer. Here are some tips on finding good coin dealers: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/coin_dealer/
And, here’s a search engine that will tell you where a reputable coin dealer is near you: https://www.pngdealers.com/dealersearch.php
Good luck!
I acquired a 1904 Indian Head Penny with the word “COPY” on the tail side. Is it worth anything?
Hello, Steve –
While your replica 1904 Indian Head cent isn’t really worth anything, you may be interested to know that there is growing interest in collecting fake coins. Here’s some more info: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/fake-coins/
I have a sent of 6 steel pennies P.D.S. mark are the worth anything?
Hello, Audrey –
With the assumption that the steel pennies exhibit wear (just so we don’t over-inflate value possibilities without seeing the coins in person), your 1943 Lincoln cents are worth around 10 to 25 cents each.
Please post photos of your coins here if you please!
I have a 1899 Indian head penny. It is dirty but not very worn. What do you think?
Hi, J –
An 1899 with a moderate amount of wear will be worth in the neighborhood of $3 to $10, with the variance based on exactly how much wear the coin has and also any imperfections (nicks, scratches, etc.) it may have. If you clean your coin, it will actually further lower its value.
Thanks for your question!
I have a 1897 penny good conditon what is worth anybody thank you
Hello, Lathen –
An 1897 Indian Head penny is worth around $3 to $5 in worn condition.
We own an 1864 L Indian Head Penny with a strike error on the front that is in near un-circulated conditions. Value estimates are appreciated
Hi, Rayla –
Would you mind sending us a photo of your 1864 Indian Head cent so we can help determine what type of strike error it has and, consequently, the value?
Thank you!
I have a 1803 Indian head coin it’s real thin but it does not bend and has nothing on the back
what about a 1803 worth
I have all indian heads except the 1909 S. I want to sell the set. Where would be the best place?
i have a 1906 wheat indian head penny, what is the value of such a coin?
Hello, Brit —
What a great classic American coin. The 1906 Indian Head penny is relatively common and its worth between 80 cents and $2.
Thanks for your question!
Josh
I have several hundred indian head pennies that my grandfather collected, most years from I think 1859 to 1909 (?). What is the best way to figure out what I have, how to care for them, etc. How much will this cost?
Hello, Jon —
Thanks for your question. I think the first thing you need to do is list out the dates of each coin and go out and buy yourself an Indian penny coin folder or album to house your coins.
You will also need to keep your coins in a cool, dry place because copper is a highly reactive metal. Whatever you do, don’t clean your coins. Not even with soap and water. Cleaning coins ruins their value and makes them undesirable to most coin collectors.
Once you list out the dates of your coins, I can provide rough approximations on value. However, these links may help you find some of the answers you need.
Here they are:
Indian Head pennies – most valuable dates: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/indian_heady_penny_value/
Indian Head penny values – https://www.coinvalues.com/indian-head-pennies
Why you shouldn’t clean coins – https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/cleaned-coins/
Indian Head penny coin albums – https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=indian+head+penny+books&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aindian+head+penny+books
Please don’t hesitate to let me know if you have any more questions!
Coins are all in circulated condition, never been cleaned. I don’t know how to rate condition. Thanks!
1859
64
65(3)
66(2)
67
68
72
75
79(3)
80(3)
81(3)
82(7)
83(6)
84(5)
85(2)
86(3)
87(6)
88(4)
89(10)
90(14)
91(15)
92(6)
93(19)
94(3)
95(4)
96(13)
97(5)
98(17)
99(20)
1900(15)
01(35)
02(11)
03(30)
04(26)
05(51)
06(57)
07(34)
08(29)
09(7)
I came across an old box with a Indian head penny pendent from the US mint in it. I really don’t know where to start researching or even if its worth anything. Do you have any advice?
Hello, TJ —
Great question. Coin jewelry is collectible, though the value of the Indian penny itself would depend on its condition. At a minimum, assuming it’s a common date piece that was cleaned and partly rim damaged (having been inserted into the pendant setting), it’s worth at least 50 cents to $1. However, the value could increase dramatically with any of the following:
*The coin is uncleaned
*The coin isn’t very well worn
*The coin is a scarce date
Can you tell what date the Indian Head cent is?
It is a 1908, unclean medallion-style pendent. I tried to send a picture of it.
Let me know if you got the picture. I have found only images on the web, but no actual info on it.
Can anyone tell me what this is? 1887 Indian Head Penny with blue face. This is the best picture I could get.
Hi, Jeffry,
It looks like somebody flooded the obverse with paint, which settled in the recessed areas of the coin. An Indian Head cent with this type of alteration would be worth 10 to 25 cents.
Best,
Josh @ TheFunTimesGuide
Hey Josh I have a gold indian head penny. I CAN’T FIND IT ANYWHERE ONLINE TO COMPARE. How much do you think it could be worth ? I hope it’s not a painted coin that would blow lol. It’s not magnetic and I believe it looks like real gold not plated but I’m no pro.Did they even make gold. It’s 1908 and beside it in the pic I provided is a 1/10 Oz eagle gold.
Hi, Mike ‘n’ Kayla!
I hate to burst the numismatic buble, but unfortunately the Indian Head cent has been plated. Perhaps with real gold, yes, but the gold is probably 18 karat or lower and is a post-mint alteration.
It’s still a neat novelty find nevertheless and has a value of around $3 to $5.
Best,
Josh
Thanķs for your time. You didn’t really burst my numismatic bubble I figured it was plated just was in a Lil denial. I have a lot of awesome coins I’d like to show you and get your opinion on. Give me a holler if you want some pics of coins you won’t see anywhere else like crazy defects and other stuff. Do you know anything about Roman coins with 2 guards or men with spears standing side by side ?
Hi, Mike n Kayla!
I loathe having to tell people that, sometimes, their coins may not be worth as much they hope — but I’ve had many people who ask about or show me coins that are worth significant sums. So, please trust me when I say there are some real treasures in pocket change, and some valuable coins hiding away in old furniture, estates, and heirloom lots. Feel free to post any coin photos you wish, though I will say I’m not an expert on ancient coins. I will, however, try to identify them for you if I can.
Cheers,
Josh
That’s a novelty round it’s not actually a coin. It’s worth one to ten dollars.
I also have a Gold 1911 D $2.5 Quarter Eagle. It was put in a setting in 1914 that has kept it protected no signs of wear, it has been in a sealed package since the 1920’s. The setting is attached to a Ladies Gold Pocket Watch dated 1869 made by Moulininie Geneva it still keeps perfect time.
Sorry the Picture is not better.
Hi, Jeffry –
If this is an authentic 1911-D Indian Head quarter eagle, it would be worth at least $2,000 if not in the setting. I’m concerned the setting may have possible caused some damage to the rim and edge of the coin, and this would reduce the value somewhat. As a numismatist, I find value in the coin, but that’s not to say the watch isn’t worth as much or more with the coin attached. If you’re interested in an estimate for all associated parts either to sell or for insurance purposes, I recommend taking the watch for an appraisal by a watch specialist and then a coin dealer to get a sight-seen estimate on the coin given the presence of possible rim/edge damage. Assuming the 1911-D is authentic and sustained minor damage, it could still be worth $1,500 or more.
Best,
Josh @ TheFunTimesGuide
Thank you Josh,
I would like to tell you a bit more about the Watch and the coin, I have had a Jeweler who specializes in antique clocks and watches look at the entire piece. I would like to tell you the history of both. The watch was given to an ancestor of mine in 1869 by the Russian Czar for here service to the family. I have now received documents that show the provenance of the watch. The coin was added to the chain in 1914 I have the original invoice from that time. This was passed down through generations and kept as a family heirloom protected from ware and damage. The coin is now removed from the setting the Jeweler said that the coin needed to be graded by either NGC or PCGS, in his opinion the coin is in MS-66+ or better however he was not qualified to give me a real grade or value. I am not sure what all this means other than the watch is valuable because of its history and condition. The coin is still in question, I would not want to sell the watch but the coin on the other hand would depend on grade and value. If you can give me any information or the best way to get the coin graded without taking any unnecessary risk I would like your feedback. It seems that the coin my be very rare in its current condition. Thank you in advance for your help.
Josh I forgot to send you the picture of the watch. I am not sure if watches are of any interest to you but because you seem to be into old collectable coins I thought why not. Unfortunately the only pictures are 6.5mb or larger so I can’t upload the pics, if you want to see them let me know how I can send them to you. Thanks.
Thank you Josh,
I would like to tell you a bit more about the Watch and the coin, I have had a Jeweler who specializes in antique clocks and watches look at the entire piece. I would like to tell you the history of both. The watch was given to an ancestor of mine in 1869 by the Russian Czar for her service to the family. I have now received documents that show the provenance of the watch. The coin was added to the chain in 1914 I have the original invoice from that time. This was passed down through generations and kept as a family heirloom protected from ware and damage. The coin is now removed from the setting the Jeweler said that the coin needed to be graded by either NGC or PCGS, in his opinion the coin is in MS-66+ or better however he was not qualified to give me a real grade or value. I am not sure what all this means other than the watch is valuable because of its history and condition. The coin is still in question, I would not want to sell the watch but the coin on the other hand would depend on grade and value. If you can give me any information or the best way to get the coin graded without taking any unnecessary risk I would like your feedback. It seems that the coin my be very rare in its current condition. Thank you in advance for your help.
Hi, Jeffry —
The fact that you can provide provenance on the watch is outstanding, and I’m sure its historic value alone and is something I would get appraised for insurance purposes if nothing else. What an impressive heirloom.
As for the coin, I would suggest that you reach out to one of the three major professional coin grading services – PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service), NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation), and ANACS (American Numismatic Association Certification Service). These are highly secure and reputable firms, each regularly handling coins worth tens of thousands of dollars.
Here’s some basic info on third-party coin grading services: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/slabbed_coins/
I definitely recommend you reach out to each and see which best suits your budget as well as turnaround time, if that’s an important matter to you.
Please follow you if you have further questions!
Best,
Josh
How come I see all these years of Indian head pennies but no 1907?
I have a 1907
Hello, Kevin —
If you have a worn 1907 Indian Head cent, it’s worth $2 to $5.
Best,
Josh
I have an 1888 Indian head penny, had what looks like a wreath with arrows on the front and obviously an Indian head on the other side. Coin is tarnished. The date and detail, dots around the edge are all still very detailed no scratches or scrapes. Was kept in a cloth bag and left in a box for years. Just wondering if it may have any value…Anyone, input. Thx.
Hi, Michael —
Yes, worn 1888 Indian Head cents are worth anywhere from $3 to $15 or more based on the condition. An uncirculated piece could be worth $35 or more.
The best thing to do is not clean the surface at all (doing so reduces the value and makes the coin uncollectible in the eyes of most coin collectors) and keep it in a cool, dry place.
Best,
Josh
Hi I was wondering if you or anyone have ever seen a 1859 Indian head penny like this ? It has Roman Numerals , on the back ,of course they have been carved into the coin, but the back of the coin is flat, I found this coin while metal detecting in Kentucky, Thank you, bdstosh39@yahoo.com
Hi, Stanley —
Finding any Indian Head cent via metal detecting makes for an exciting find! The Roman numerals were etched into the coin by somebody outside the U.S. Mint, though this piece is still a treasure — it’s the first year for the Indian Head penny series and, again, you found it through your own blood, sweat, and tears (hopefully not too much blood was involved).
Cheers,
Josh
Hi josh I have an Indian head penny just like the ones above but there is no date??? There is also a very small coin in bedded into the health wealth and happiness side and the small coin reads “west swinney park ft. Wayne ind” and the entire indian head penny is in very good shape !!! I was just puzzled I couldn’t find a date…
Hi, Thomas —
It sounds like you have some type of token or medal with some of the Indian Head penny design incorporated into your piece. If you wouldn’t mind uploading a photo of your coin so I can see exactly what you have, I’ll gladly tell you more!
Best,
Josh
Is it rare or common that there is no date ??
Hi, Thomas —
You have a large Indian cent token. These are neat novelty items that I talk a bit about in this post: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/tokens/
Best,
Josh
I have a 1907 Indian head penny set in a pendant, still in the original packaging, and it says 11cent penny on the box! Any idea if it’s worth anything
I have a Indian head penny from 1904 do you what its worth?
Hi, Carburola –
A 1904 Indian Head cent with a typical amount of wear is worth $1 to $3.
Best,
Josh
I have a 1901 Indian head that is silver. At first I thought it was plated by someone but it is slightly worn and no signs of copper coming through. Was told that one year there were silver dime blanks accidently struck in indian head penny dies. Was that the year?
Hi, Horatio —
The only way to really tell for sure is to weigh the coin — if it weighs 3.11 (or more) grams, then it is a regular copper cent that has been plated with silver or may have been discolored.
A dime from that era weighs 2.5 grams — precisely the weight your 1901 Indian cent should weigh if it was accidentally struck on a dime planchet.
Good luck!
Josh
Is my 1896 Indian head penny worth anything?
Hi, Jessica!
It certainly is. With average circulated wear, am 1896 Indian Head cent is worth $3 to $5.
Nice find!
Josh
Hi Joshua,
Recently we found an 1802 Liberty Half Cent a 50/100..? that I believe is from the Thomas Jefferson Presidency Era..? And was just wondering what its worth? Now I’d say its in non-circulated condition at the very least to possibly…I think I believe its called, gem uncirculated and maybe even the one above that possibly as it was found in my families old estate Historic reg.’d home here in Cincinnati Ohio originally built in 1768 and is currently owned and has always been in our family since its inception and build. We found it inside and under the dummy waiter bottom’s shaft on it’s most bottom floor in about an inch and a half of dust and dirt build up. It look as if it was never even touched at all just the normal darkening of the copper from being as old as it is of course…have you any clue to its possible value? Thanks! -Casey W. Rockenstein….
i have a 1900 indian head penny that is in literally perfect condition. Im curious how much is that worth?
Hi, John —
Perfect is a literal adjective term in coin grading used for coins that have never been worn and have virtually no nicks, scratches, or other surface issues; these are Mint-State 70 and Proof 70 coins.
If you don’t mind posting a photo of your 1900 Indian Head cent so I can get a better idea as to its grade, I’d be glad to help!
Have a wonderful day,
Josh
hi I have an silver arrow head with a penny and an Indian head in the middle. the Indian head is raised and is in color I don’t think it is a sticker. the back has one cent and is in white lettering. is this worth anything.
Hi I was just wandering if I have been misinformed about a variation of the 1870 Indian head….I know it as the shallow N from where the N in One was worn when the coin was struck so didn’t make a complete strike. I got this in a collection…..from what I understand they hold a premium over other Indian head cents….am I correct? This single coin has got me interested in collecting all the dates and variations of Indian heads…..some that will forever be out of my budget haha Thank you. Regards David
What is this?
Hi, Tyler —
This appears to be a token of unknown origin… Are there any inscriptions on the back?
Thank you,
Josh
I have a question I accumulated this penny and really don’t collect them and was wondering the value of this 1888 Indian head penny with certificate of authenticity I have no need for it and thought maybe I can get some answers about this coin
Hi, Walker —
Your 1888 Indian Head cent is worth about $2 to $3 — yours is well-worn but nice, original condition.
Best,
Josh
Hey buddy, just wondering, but I have an 1901, 1906, & 1907 Indian head penny and was wonder the price value. I aslo have one 1848 large cent & 1853 large cent. Let me know if u can, thanks.
Here is a somewhat better picture to view the date spotty camera
I found a 1995 D that feels lighter and is thinner and weighs less than a normal nickel. We weighed a normal nickel at .50 and this nickel weighs in at .48. It also appears that the front is in a lot more detail than on a normal nickel. I am attaching pictures of comparison for you. Is this nickel worth anything?
Joyce Buckner
Hi, Joyce —
It looks like your 1995-D Jefferson nickel was dipped in acid, caustically removing several layers of metal and also giving the coin the brownish appearance it now has. It’s worth face value, but the story it could tell if it could talk is probably worth much more than 5 cents!
Best,
Josh
Can I have an example picture of what an 1888 over 7 looks like?
1903 Indian head how much I think it’s worth https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/49f59555b2569678a4e31fb0ee9f72f2630bb09bd6ca821a2a463e714729cb5e.jpg
Hi, Nahdia —
Is the coin encased in a piece of jewelry? It looks like it has some type of additional rim or collar. The coin itself, in this condition, is worth 75 cents to $1.25.
Thank you for your question and photo!
Josh
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/22c8ec527104a29f565d66d7d00f9ee7acbb54677dba0293fb0af8030b402731.jpg
Hi, Christina!
This is a very nice 1906 Indian Head cent with original color. It’s worth somewhere in the $4 to $7 range.
Thank you for your question!
Josh
I have a 1899 silver Indian head penny , no clue what its worth ?2
Hello, Larry —
You might want to check out this post: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/silver-penny/
Good luck,
Josh
i have a 1908-S silver indian head penny, what will be the worth of this?
Hello, Hrithik —
Would you please post a photo of this 1908-S Indian Head cent?
Thank you,
Josh
Does a worn 1868 have any value. Just started going through my grandfathers collection, I am 83. I want to shine a few for display.
Hi, Dave —
It sounds like you are making some wonderful finds in your grandfather’s collection. A circulated 1868 Indian Head cent is worth anywhere from about $25 up to $100 or more, depending on how much wear it has. If it is cleaned in any way, the value will be cut in half, so I recommend leaving it in its original condition.
Thank you for your question!
Best wishes,
Josh
Thanks for reply, I was big in fishinglures & know about cleaning but I did it anyway because am using for display at home. what a doumb ass.
Thanks for reply, I was big in fishinglures & know about cleaning but I did it anyway because am using for display at home. what a doumb ass.
No worries, Dave! It makes sense… Classic lures, classic cars, etc… they’re items we all are supposed to clean to help preserve them. Coins are one of those things in which collectors prefer original patina. But now you know for next time!
Thank you for reaching out,
Josh
I have a quarter that only has silver on one the obverse side, the copper only shows on the other. I held on to it because it was unusual, just wondering what your thoughts are?
Hi Carol,
May I please see a photo of both sides of this coin?
Thank you!
Josh
Hi Josh
Thanks for the reply! I hope the pictures are clear enough for you to see, if not let me know and I’ll re do them.
It’s probably nothing but like I said I’ve just held on to it because it was different. https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/8ff60ec773e8ab8d60377580bd864a3ff306fdb859764352f569fe73e8f8a791.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/e493c7dbcc66e8a1bbff9048327bb9471903c73d2184b08ceeae4266825181bb.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/b7c34f0781b5587905b56f478d57764b49aa500197084193c051eeb450f57860.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/e493c7dbcc66e8a1bbff9048327bb9471903c73d2184b08ceeae4266825181bb.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/e29000b4fd6370271209c0fb9eff2e856229e3a456c2e39ebaf69873486145cb.jpg
Hi, Carol —
Wow, what has actually happened here is your 1973 quarter has been chemically altered, with the edges and tail’s side (reverse) exposing the coin’s copper inner core. While this piece is technically damaged, I don’t often see pieces like this. Very interesting! It’s worth face value, but might be neat to hang on to as a novelty.
Best wishes,
Josh
Hi my name is Jack kaiser and I have two coins I’ve been wandering about for some time now. First I have a 1974 Lincoln cent with an imprint of the state of California on the obverse right above the date, and second I have a coin that has no denomination it just says Treasury department United States of America on the obverse or reverse not sure which side is which, on the opposite side it says San Francisco Mint , With two dates 1874 / 1937 with s mint mark under dates. A imprint of an eagle holding scales in its beak and the map of USA in its chest, on the side that says treasury department. And an imprint of the San Francisco mint on the other side can you tell me if these coins are valuable or not?
Hi, Jack —
The 1974 cent with the California state outline is actually a post-Mint counterstamped piece, but one of the most popular around. Around the 1980s, a private company punched outlines of the 50 states on various Lincoln cents dating from the 1970s through early ’80s. These coins are technically considered altered/damaged, but they are popular novelty coins that often sell for 50 cents to a dollar or more.
I would need to please see a photo of the San Francisco piece, but it sounds like you’re describing a Mint token or medal, and many of those are made from bronze and generally worth $2 to $5.
Best wishes,
Josh
I have a 1982 small d penny that weighs 3.1. Is this worth anything? if so, how do I go about selling it?
Hi, Atiyeh —
Would you please post a couple clear images of this coin do I can further assist you?
Thanks,
Josh