The 1879 Indian Head penny, while not as rare as some of its counterparts from the 1870s, remains a highly sought-after coin in the numismatic world. Like many coins from this era, it is part of the early years of the Indian Head series and holds substantial appeal for collectors due to its age, historical significance, and the difficulty of finding well-preserved examples.
Due to the high demand from collectors, even 1879 Indian Head pennies in poor condition can fetch a respectable price. The fact that only a limited number of these coins survived over 100 years of circulation adds to their allure. However, the key factor in determining how much an 1879 Indian Head penny is worth lies in its condition.
Grading the 1879 Indian Head Penny
Grading a coin is the process of evaluating its condition, which directly impacts its market value. A coin’s grade reflects how much wear it has endured over the years, and it’s essential to understand the grading system to determine the coin’s worth accurately. Below are the main grades and what they signify for the 1879 Indian Head penny:
Uncirculated (MS 60 to MS 70)
An Uncirculated Indian Head penny is a coin that has never been used in commerce. It was placed into safekeeping shortly after being minted, preserving its original luster and design details. Although some of its luster may have faded due to time, the coin should still look remarkably fresh, with minimal imperfections.
- Value: In Uncirculated condition, the 1879 Indian Head penny can be worth approximately $80.
Extremely Fine (EF 40 to EF 45)
An Extremely Fine Indian Head penny shows only minimal signs of wear, typically from short-term circulation. The imagery on the coin remains sharp and raised, though there may be some reduction in luster. The coin will still display excellent detail and is considered to be in outstanding condition for a coin of its age.
- Value: An Extremely Fine 1879 Indian Head penny generally fetches about $70.
Fine (F 12 to F 15)
A Fine 1879 Indian Head penny has been in circulation for an extended period. These coins display visible signs of wear, such as scratching and flattening of the raised imagery. While the coin has lost much of its shine, the main design elements remain visible, and the coin still maintains much of its character.
- Value: A Fine 1879 Indian Head penny typically sells for around $20.
Good (G 4 to G 6)
Coins in Good condition have been heavily circulated over the years and show significant wear. The raised elements on the coin may be difficult to distinguish with the naked eye, and much of the finer detail has been lost. Despite this, coins in Good condition are still valuable to collectors due to their historical importance.
- Value: A Good 1879 Indian Head penny is generally worth about $8.
Pricing the 1879 Indian Head Penny
The value of an 1879 Indian Head penny is largely determined by its grade. Higher-grade coins, which have fewer signs of wear and better-preserved details, are worth significantly more than lower-grade coins. Below is a quick reference chart for the price range based on the coin’s condition:
| Grade | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Good | $8 |
| Fine | $20 |
| Extremely Fine | $70 |
| Uncirculated | $80 |
Why the 1879 Indian Head Penny Matters
While the 1879 Indian Head penny may not be the rarest or most expensive coin in the series, it still holds value due to its historical significance and the rarity of surviving coins from that era. The Indian Head cent series, introduced in 1859, was one of the first designs to depict an Indigenous American on a U.S. coin, which adds an extra layer of historical importance to these coins.
The 1879 penny marks another year in the evolution of U.S. coinage, and the design on the obverse features the iconic Indian headdress, which has become a hallmark of American numismatic history. On the reverse, the coin features a wreath of oak and laurel, symbolizing strength and peace.
Though the coin was produced in greater numbers than some of the more famous “key date” Indian Head pennies, its age and the fact that only a limited number have survived in decent condition ensure that it is still highly prized by collectors.
Collecting and Selling the 1879 Indian Head Penny
If you’re looking to purchase an 1879 Indian Head penny for your collection or sell one you already own, there are several options available. These coins can be found on online auction platforms like eBay, at local coin shops, and through reputable numismatic dealers. It’s always a good idea to have your coin graded by a professional service if you’re uncertain about its condition, as this can help you determine its true value in the market.
The 1879 Indian Head penny, while not as rare or as valuable as some other years in the series, is still a highly collectible coin that offers both historical significance and numismatic value. Its condition plays a significant role in determining its price, with higher-grade examples commanding significantly more than those that have been heavily worn. Whether you’re looking to add this coin to your collection or sell it, the 1879 Indian Head penny continues to be a valuable and sought-after piece of U.S. coinage history.
