The 1872 Indian Head Penny is one of the most sought-after editions in the series. Like other early 1870s Indian Head cents, its high value comes from scarcity rather than any special design features. Even heavily worn examples remain extremely valuable, and collectors are always on the lookout for well-preserved specimens.
Grading the 1872 Indian Head Penny
Because of its age and rarity, grading plays a crucial role in determining its market value. Here’s how the different conditions affect its collectibility:
Uncirculated
- Top-tier condition—never circulated, keeping all original details intact.
- Retains most of its original mint luster.
- No wear on high points like Liberty’s headdress or wreath.
- Extremely rare and highly valuable.
Extremely Fine
- Slight wear visible on high points, especially on Liberty’s cheek and feather details.
- Most of the design remains sharp, but slight dulling may be present.
- A rare and highly desirable grade for collectors.
Fine
- Significant wear across the coin, particularly on raised surfaces.
- Liberty’s facial details and lettering may show smoothing.
- Overall design is still visible, but some elements may be faint.
Good
- Heavily worn, with much of the design faded.
- The rim and inscriptions may be partially merged with the background.
- The most common surviving grade, but still valuable due to rarity.
1872 Indian Head Penny Value Chart
Like other early 1870s Indian Head pennies, the 1872 edition has two varieties based on the “N” in “One Cent”:
- Shallow N (More Expensive)
- Bold N (Slightly Less Expensive)
| Grade | Shallow N | Bold N |
|---|---|---|
| Good | $100 | $90 |
| Fine | $370 | $300 |
| Extremely Fine | $575 | $500 |
| Uncirculated | $700 | $650 |
- Shallow N variety carries a higher premium in all grades.
- Even a Good-grade 1872 Shallow N sells for over $100, while an Uncirculated example can go for $700 or more.
- The Bold N version, while slightly less expensive, still commands significant value.
Why the 1872 Indian Head Penny is Valuable
- Limited Survival Rate – Fewer high-quality examples remain compared to other years.
- Condition Sensitivity – Finding an Extremely Fine or Uncirculated example is rare.
- Two Varieties – The Shallow N variety is particularly desirable.
- High Demand – Many collectors seek early 1870s Indian Head pennies, further driving up prices.
The 1872 Indian Head Penny is an exceptionally valuable piece of numismatic history. Its rarity alone makes it a prized addition to any collection, regardless of condition. If you find one, be sure to assess its grade carefully—even well-worn examples can sell for hundreds of dollars!
