The 1877 Indian Head Penny is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the entire series. With the second-lowest mintage (only behind the 1909 Indian Head Penny), this coin is considered a key date, making it highly sought after by collectors.
If you’re thinking about adding this coin to your collection, be prepared to spend thousands of dollars due to its extreme scarcity. On the other hand, if you already own one, you could be holding onto a small fortune!
This guide will walk you through the history, features, varieties, errors, and grading tips of the 1877 Indian Head Penny to help you understand its true value.
So, is this rare penny worth the investment? Let’s dive in and find out!
| 1877 Indian Head Penny Value Chart | ||||
| Mint Mark | Good | Fine | Extremely Fine | Uncirculated |
| 1877 No-Mint Mark Indian Head Penny Value | $585 | $1,175 | $2,650 | $4850 |
| 1877 Proof Indian Head Penny Value | – | – | – | $11,000 |
History of the 1877 Indian Head Penny
The 1877 Indian Head penny is part of the Indian Head cent series, which was minted by the United States Mint from 1859 to 1909.
This coin replaced the Flying Eagle cent, which had a high-relief design that made it difficult and expensive to produce. To simplify minting, a lower-relief design was introduced with the new Indian Head penny.
Before the Flying Eagle cent, U.S. pennies (minted between 1793 and 1857) were large copper coins. However, due to the Gold Rush, copper prices rose significantly, forcing the Mint to seek alternative metal compositions.
Since cents and half-cents were profitable, the Mint did not want to eliminate them entirely. In 1857, the composition of the penny was changed to 88% copper and 12% nickel, and its size was reduced, creating the Flying Eagle cent.
These new cents, while similar to modern pennies, were slightly thicker and marked the first time in U.S. coinage history that copper and nickel were used together.
However, the Flying Eagle cent was unpopular. The Mint found it difficult and costly to produce, so they planned to replace it with a low-relief coin that would be easier to strike and more profitable.
The design process for a new coin began in 1858, and by 1859, the Indian Head penny replaced the Flying Eagle cent.
The country faced economic struggles following the American Civil War, leading to the hoarding of nickel coins, a metal essential for wartime needs.
Following the Mint’s recommendations, Congress passed the Coinage Act of 1864, which changed the penny’s composition from copper-nickel to a bronze alloy containing copper, zinc, and tin.
The thinner bronze cent became highly popular, and the Mint responded by producing them in large quantities each year.
However, 1877 was a major exception. That year, the Mint struck only 852,500 cents, a drastic drop compared to previous years, when millions of pennies were minted annually.
With fewer than a million coins produced, the 1877 Indian Head penny became a key date, gaining strong interest among collectors over time. The only other Indian Head cent with a lower mintage was in 1909, when only 309,000 coins were struck before the Lincoln cent replaced the series.
Features of the 1877 Indian Head Penny
In this section, we will explore the distinctive characteristics of the 1877 Indian Head penny. Recognizing these key features will help you identify valuable coins and determine whether your Indian Head penny holds significant worth.
The Obverse of the 1877 Indian Head Penny
The 1877 Indian Head penny was designed by James Barton Longacre, the chief engraver at the Philadelphia Mint.
On the obverse of the coin, there is a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty, wearing a headdress traditionally associated with Native American culture. While some theories suggested that the image was based on Longacre’s twelve-year-old daughter, the designer himself clarified that it was actually inspired by the Crouching Venus statue.
The portrait represents a Caucasian woman wearing Native American headgear, with a ribbon inscribed with LIBERTY woven into her flowing hair. She also wears a beaded necklace, and if you look closely, you’ll find a hidden letter “L” in her hair.
The words UNITED STATES appear along the inner collar on the left, while OF AMERICA is inscribed on the right side of the coin. The year “1877” is displayed at the bottom, and the edge of the coin is decorated with small denticles along its diameter.
The Reverse of the 1877 Indian Head Penny
The reverse of the 1877 Indian Head penny features several meaningful symbols. The most prominent design element is two oak branches delicately tied together with a ribbon.
Earlier Indian Head cents had a laurel wreath, but this was later replaced by oak leaves. Within the ribbon, you will also notice three arrows, which symbolize freedom from colonial rule and a readiness to defend the nation’s independence.
At the top of the coin, the oak leaves open up to a small shield. This shield bears thirteen horizontal and thirteen vertical stripes, representing the original thirteen states that first gained independence.
The denomination “ONE CENT” is boldly displayed in the center, and the coin’s outer edge is adorned with small denticles for added detail.
Other Features of the 1877 Indian Head Penny
The 1877 Indian Head penny is made of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc.
This plain-edged coin has a diameter of 19.00 millimeters and weighs 3.11 grams, making it significantly lighter than the earlier copper-nickel cents.
Since only the Philadelphia Mint produced Indian Head pennies in 1877, these coins do not have a mint mark.
1877 Indian Head Penny Grading
Grading a coin involves carefully examining it for signs of wear and overall condition. While professional grading is recommended for accurate assessment, you can still estimate your coin’s condition by inspecting its features.
Given their age, most 1877 Indian Head pennies are found in circulated condition, typically graded as “Good.” These coins often have worn-out imagery and a smooth texture due to extensive use over the years.
Uncirculated coins from this year are extremely rare. To be considered Uncirculated, a coin must have full, complete luster and show no signs of wear.
Coin Grading Scale
| Grade | Condition Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Basal State-1 (Heavily worn, barely identifiable) |
| 2 | Fair |
| 3 | Very Fair |
| 4-6 | Good |
| 7-10 | Very Good |
| 12-15 | Fine |
| 20-30 | Very Fine |
| 40 | Extremely Fine |
| 50 | About Uncirculated |
| 60 | Mint State (MS) |
| 65 | Mint State (High quality, minimal flaws) |
| 70 | Mint State (Perfect condition) |
For a precise evaluation, refer to grading guides to determine your coin’s scale. Knowing the grade is crucial in estimating the exact value of your 1877 Indian Head penny.
1877 Indian Head Penny Value Guides
Is the 1877 Indian Head Penny Worth Money?
The answer is a definite YES!
If you own or come across an 1877 Indian Head cent, you have a valuable coin in your hands.
Due to its low mintage and high demand among collectors, this penny is one of the most sought-after in the Indian Head series. Even in lower grades, it can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Varieties of the 1877 Indian Head Penny
There are two primary varieties of the 1877 Indian Head penny:
- 1877 No-Mint Mark Indian Head Penny
- Struck at the Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark).
- The standard circulation version, which is highly valuable in all grades.
- 1877 Proof Indian Head Penny
- Specially struck for collectors with sharper details and a mirror-like finish.
- Much rarer than the regular issue and commands a higher premium.
If you happen to own one of these coins, grading it properly is crucial to determine its true value.
1877 No-Mint Mark Indian Head Penny Value
The 1877 Indian Head penny is a rare and highly sought-after coin due to its historically low mintage of only 852,500 coins, making it the second-lowest mintage in the entire series. For comparison, the previous year (1876) saw around a million pennies produced, and in 1878, the Mint struck over 5 million pennies.
This low mintage is attributed to the tough economic times faced by the country during that year. Some numismatic researchers believe that the actual mintage could have been even lower than the reported number, further increasing its rarity.
The Rarity and Value of the 1877 Indian Head Penny
Even well-worn examples of the 1877 penny are valuable. A circulated brown penny can range between $585 and $4,600, depending on its condition.
However, uncirculated examples are extremely rare and can fetch high prices:
- MS60 (brown) — up to $4,850
- MS65 (brown) — up to $11,500
- MS66 (brown) — as high as $20,000
The extremely rare red specimens are even more valuable. Only one or two fully red 1877 Indian Head pennies are believed to exist, and these can sell for at least $125,000 in MS66 condition.
The most expensive red gem-quality 1877 penny ever sold was an astonishing $149,500 at a 2007 Heritage Auctions sale.
In Summary:
- Circulated 1877 pennies can still command a significant price, ranging from a few hundred to thousands of dollars.
- Uncirculated and gem-quality examples are extremely rare and can fetch tens of thousands of dollars, with fully red specimens reaching six-figure prices.
If you come across one of these rare coins, it could be a once-in-a-lifetime find!
1877 Proof Indian Head Penny Value
In 1877, the Philadelphia Mint produced approximately 900 proof Indian Head pennies, though the exact number remains uncertain.
Free Coin Appraisal & Sale
If you’re unsure about the value of your coins, you can get a free appraisal and even sell them through our verified platform.
Value of the 1877 Proof Indian Head Penny
The proof pennies from 1877 aren’t necessarily scarce, but they are highly sought after due to the rarity of Mint State pennies from that year. Depending on their condition, you can expect to pay:
- Between $3,000 and $11,000 for a typical proof coin.
Cameo examples are incredibly rare, and one graded PF66 sold for a remarkable $36,000 in an auction in 2020.
Rare 1877 Indian Head Penny Errors List
Error coins are those with distinct flaws or anomalies, making them unique and often valuable. These mistakes can occur during the minting process, resulting in coins that stand out from the rest. While most coins are minted perfectly, a few will have flaws or oddities that increase their desirability among collectors.
If you happen to find an unusual 1877 Indian Head penny, don’t discard it—it could be worth a significant amount of money.
Though errors on 1877 Indian Head pennies are rare, the few known errors can fetch substantial prices. Here are some examples of 1877 Indian Head penny errors that are known to be valuable:
1. Off-Center Strikes
Coins with an off-center strike occur when the coin is not properly aligned during the minting process. This creates a coin with a portion of the design missing or shifted. These errors can add significant value to the coin.
2. Double Die Errors
A double die error happens when a coin’s design is struck more than once. This results in doubled images, often seen in the date or lettering. On a 1877 Indian Head penny, this could be particularly noticeable in the “LIBERTY” inscription on Lady Liberty’s headband or the year “1877.”
3. Die Cracks or Cuds
Die cracks or cuds are formed when the minting die develops cracks or breaks. The resulting coin might show a raised line or lump along the design. These errors are unique and can significantly increase the coin’s value.
4. Clipped Planchets
This error occurs when a portion of the metal planchet is missing due to improper cutting before the coin is struck. A clipped 1877 Indian Head penny can be a rare and valuable find for collectors.
Value of Error Coins
Depending on the type of error and the coin’s condition, these mistakes can increase the value of the 1877 Indian Head penny dramatically. While the regular coins can be worth hundreds or thousands of dollars, error coins may fetch even higher prices.
If you come across an 1877 Indian Head penny with a flaw or oddity, it’s worth having it evaluated by a professional to determine its value.
1877 Off-Center Strike Indian Head Penny Error
An off-center strike occurs when the die is misaligned during the minting process, causing the design to appear shifted from the center of the coin. This creates a unique and noticeable error that collectors find highly desirable.
The value of an off-center error coin depends largely on the degree to which the design is misaligned, often referred to as the “off-center percentage.” The higher the percentage, the more valuable the coin tends to be.
For example:
- An off-center strike of around 15% on an 1877 Indian Head penny could be worth up to $130.
- An off-center strike of around 50% could fetch up to $300 or more, depending on its overall condition.
The rarity and distinctiveness of these off-center error coins make them particularly appealing to collectors, contributing to their higher market value.
1877 Strike-Through Indian Head Penny Error
Strike-through errors are relatively common in 1877 Indian Head pennies. These errors occur when an external object—such as grease, debris, dust particles, or other foreign materials—gets between the coin’s planchet and the dies during the minting process. As a result, the die cannot fully transfer the design onto the planchet, creating a strike-through error.
The value of a strike-through error can vary greatly, depending on the size and extent of the obstruction. Larger obstructions, which result in significant parts of the coin’s design being missing, tend to be more valuable, as long as the date remains intact.
For an 1877 Indian Head penny with a strike-through error, you can expect to see values ranging from $1,000 to $2,000, depending on the severity of the error and its overall condition. The more dramatic and noticeable the strike-through, the higher the potential value.
Where to Sell Your 1877 Indian head penny ?
If you have an 1877 Indian Head penny and you’re looking to sell it, there are several reputable platforms where you can do so online. Below is a list of popular coin-selling websites, along with their pros and cons:
1. eBay
Introduction: eBay is one of the largest online marketplaces in the world, allowing you to sell coins to a global audience. It’s ideal for selling both individual coins and large collections.
Pros:
- Large global audience, increasing the chance of finding buyers.
- Auction-style listings can help drive up the price.
- eBay’s buyer protection offers security for both sellers and buyers.
Cons:
- Seller fees can be high (around 10%-12%).
- You may need to deal with disputes or returns.
- It can take some time to find a buyer willing to pay the right price.
2. Heritage Auctions
Introduction: Heritage Auctions is one of the largest and most reputable auction houses specializing in rare coins. They offer both live and online auctions.
Pros:
- Well-established in the numismatic world, ensuring trustworthy transactions.
- Wide reach among collectors and investors.
- Experts handle the auction process, so you can trust the valuation and selling process.
Cons:
- High seller fees (often around 10%-15%).
- You may need to wait for the right auction to match your coin.
- The auction process can take longer than direct sales.
3. Great Collections
Introduction: Great Collections is an online coin auction platform specializing in high-quality coins. It’s known for its excellent customer service and numismatic expertise.
Pros:
- Auctions targeted at serious collectors and investors.
- Offers fixed-price sales as well as auctions.
- Competitive fees, lower than some other auction houses.
Cons:
- May not be as widely recognized as Heritage or eBay.
- Limited to numismatic auctions, so the audience may be smaller.
4. Coin World Marketplace
Introduction: Coin World is a trusted publication in the numismatic community, and its marketplace provides a space for sellers to list coins for sale directly to buyers.
Pros:
- Trusted by collectors and dealers.
- Lower fees compared to other auction sites.
- Direct listings can lead to faster sales.
Cons:
- Less traffic than larger platforms like eBay.
- Requires more effort in marketing your listing.
5. PCGS CoinFacts
Introduction: PCGS is a leader in coin grading, and their CoinFacts platform includes a marketplace where collectors can buy and sell coins, including graded 1877 Indian Head pennies.
Pros:
- Trusted by the coin community due to PCGS’s reputation in coin grading.
- Direct sales to serious collectors.
- Offers access to a well-curated list of buyers.
Cons:
- Requires your coin to be graded by PCGS (this may add extra cost).
- Fees may be higher than other platforms for listing.
6. CoinAppraiser
Introduction: CoinAppraiser is a platform that offers coin appraisals and a marketplace for selling coins. It’s an excellent place for those who want to sell their coins but need an appraisal first.
Pros:
- Offers free coin appraisals.
- Focus on rare and valuable coins.
- Can help you get the right value for your coin before selling.
Cons:
- The marketplace is not as large or well-known as others.
- Limited audience compared to eBay or Heritage Auctions.
7. Catawiki
Introduction: Catawiki is an online auction platform where sellers can list rare and collectible items, including coins. It operates mainly in Europe but has a global reach.
Pros:
- Catawiki is known for its high-end collectibles, attracting serious buyers.
- Auctions typically offer high selling prices.
- Auction fees are competitive.
Cons:
- Not as widely recognized in the U.S. compared to eBay or Heritage Auctions.
- Requires creating an account to list your coin.
8. Facebook Marketplace & Coin Groups
Introduction: Facebook Marketplace allows you to sell your coins locally or globally. Additionally, there are various coin groups and forums where sellers connect with buyers.
Pros:
- No listing fees.
- Potential for quick, local transactions.
- Coin groups on Facebook are often filled with knowledgeable buyers.
Cons:
- Less security compared to established platforms like eBay.
- Buyer protection is not as robust as other platforms.
- Requires careful negotiation with individual buyers.
FAQ
Why is the 1877 Indian Head penny so valuable?
The 1877 Indian Head penny is considered a “key date” because it has one of the lowest mintages in the series, with only 852,500 pennies struck that year. This is significantly fewer than the millions produced in previous and following years, making it exceptionally rare and highly sought after by collectors. Its rarity, combined with its historical significance, drives its high value.
How can you tell if an 1877 penny is real?
Given the 1877 Indian Head penny’s popularity and high value, counterfeits are common. To verify if it’s real, examine the reverse side of the coin, particularly the word “ONE CENT.” Focus on the bottom right of the “N” in “ONE” and the top left of the “N” in “CENT.” In genuine 1877 pennies, these areas should have a weaker strike compared to the other letters. In counterfeits, all the letters in “ONE CENT” tend to appear more evenly struck.
Can you find any 1877 Indian Head pennies today?
While it’s extremely rare to find an 1877 Indian Head penny in uncirculated condition, you can still find them, though most will be heavily worn. These worn pennies will have little to no remaining luster, and many of the fine details will be almost indistinguishable due to years of circulation. Even in worn condition, an 1877 penny can still be valuable.
