1892 Indian Head Cent
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Philadelphia)
Pattern: Indian Head Cent (James B. Longacre design)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia)
Material
Bronze (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc); No silver content
Dimensions
Diameter: 19.05 mm; Weight: 3.11 grams
Description
An iconic piece of American Gilded Age coinage featuring the James B. Longacre 'Indian Head' design, which actually depicts Lady Liberty in a stylized headdress rather than an actual Native American. This specimen represents a common yet historically rich copper-alloy cent produced during the late 19th century.
Key Features
Feather headdress with 'LIBERTY' on the band; 1892 date; copper-bronze patina; lack of mint mark
Material & Composition
Bronze (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc); No silver content
Finish & Decoration
Original struck circulation finish; Neoclassical profile of Lady Liberty wearing a Native American feather headdress; Reverse typically features an oak wreath and shield
Hallmarks & Stamps
United States of America (obverse legend), 1892 (date), no mint mark (Philadelphia)
Construction Details
Die-struck at a government minting facility using steam-powered presses
Functional Features
Standard currency unit (one cent); reeded/smooth edge; legal tender status at time of issue
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; circular coin form for palm/pocket handling
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial minting quality; high-relief die striking; characteristic late 19th-century US Mint precision
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style for 1892 date; typical 'L' on ribbon (though worn); consistent diameter and bronze coloring; authentic wear patterns for a buried or heavily circulated coin
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Philadelphia Mint
Era & Period
Late Victorian/Gilded Age American numismatics (1859-1909)
Age Estimate
Dated 1892; 132 years old
Cultural Significance
Symbolized the post-Civil War unification and expansion of the United States; remains one of requested designs in American numismatic history.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition (likely Good to Very Good); visible surface oxidation (verdigris/corrosion), significant wear on high points of headdress and hair, flattened rim edges
Value Estimate
Market value $1.00 - $5.00 USD based on current circulated condition; value is numismatic, not based on metal melt
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; store in a PVC-free plastic flip or archival-safe coin holder to prevent further oxidation; avoid humidity
Similar Pieces
1892-S Morgan Silver Dollar (contains silver), 1892 Barber Dime (contains silver), 1892 Flying Eagle Cent (earlier alloy)
Interesting Facts
Despite the name, the model for the face was based on a Greek statue or possibly the designer's daughter, Sarah Longacre. The 1892 mintage was high at over 37 million pieces.