If you’re looking to enhance your Indian Head Penny collection with a beautiful and historically significant coin, the 1889 Indian Head Penny is a great choice.
The Indian Head Cent, produced by the U.S. Mint from 1859 to 1907, was a predecessor to the Lincoln Cent. The 1889 Indian Head Penny, like many coins from the 19th century, is relatively scarce and highly valued among collectors.
This iconic coin was designed by James B. Longacre, and its distinctive design represents core American ideals, featuring Lady Liberty adorned with a headdress inspired by Native American attire.
In this post, we’ll delve into the history and features of the 1889 Indian Head Penny, while discussing how factors like condition, grades, varieties, and errors influence its value. Be sure to check out the frequently asked questions section for more insights!
Here’s a breakdown of its value:
1889 Indian Head Penny Value Chart
| Mint Mark | Good | Fine | Extremely Fine | Uncirculated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1889 – No Mint Mark | $4 | $7 | $27 | $80 – $400 |
| 1889 Proof Indian Head Penny | – | – | – | $100 – $2,000 |
If you’re keen to acquire this striking piece of American history, it’s important to consider the condition, as higher-grade examples will fetch significantly higher prices.
1889 Indian Head Penny Grading
The condition or grade of a coin is a vital factor for collectors and investors when determining its value. Given the age and extensive circulation of the 1889 Indian Head Penny, most pieces tend to be in lower grades. However, finding a well-preserved specimen, although rare, is still possible.
During the grading process, the 1889 Indian Head Penny can fall into several categories depending on its condition:
- Good: These coins have noticeable damage, such as deep scratches or blemishes. The design may appear worn down but still retains some identifiable features.
- Fine: Coins in this grade show more wear, with scratches or chipping visible on the obverse and reverse. However, the features of the coin remain relatively sharp.
- Extremely Fine: These coins exhibit light wear with a few minor scratches and contact marks. The images and lettering remain raised and clear.
- Uncirculated: This coin has never been in circulation and retains its original mint luster. The design is pristine, although magnification may reveal small blemishes.
Here’s a breakdown of the grading scale:
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Basal State-1 |
| 2 | Fair |
| 3 | Very Fair |
| 4, 5, 6 | Good |
| 7, 8, 10 | Very Good |
| 12, 15 | Fine |
| 20, 30 | Very Fine |
| 40 | Extremely Fine |
| 50 | About Uncirculated |
| 60 | Mint State |
| 65 | Mint State |
| 70 | Mint State (Perfect Condition) |
Understanding the grading scale is essential for determining the value of your 1889 Indian Head Penny. For a more accurate assessment, refer to detailed grading guides.
1889 “No Mint Mark” Indian Head Penny Value
The Indian Head Cent is an essential piece of American numismatic history, minted during the Civil War. Its production not only helped spread the country’s heritage but also played a role in the economy during that time.
Initially, the U.S. Mint issued copper cents that were as large as half dollars. However, the Gold Rush in California led to inflation of copper prices. As copper became more expensive, the Mint, which relied on coin production for its income, sought better alternatives.
In 1857, the Mint decided to shrink the size of the cent and modify its composition, resulting in the Flying Eagle Cent design. Unfortunately, this coin was difficult to produce and was only in circulation for one year (1857-1858). The Indian Head Penny came in as a solution.
The coin features Lady Liberty on the obverse, adorned with a feathered tiara, symbolizing both freedom and unity. This design was created by Chief Engraver James B. Longacre, who cleverly combined these two elements into a single powerful symbol.
For the reverse, the Mint initially featured a laurel wreath with a shield. Later, the design was altered to include a shield positioned above an olive and oak wreath. Numismatist Walter Henry suggested that the Mint Director, James Ross Snowden, chose this particular design because of its lower relief, making it easier to strike properly.
Five years into production, the Mint changed the composition of the Indian Head Cent from copper-nickel (88% copper, 12% nickel) to a bronze mixture (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc). This change occurred due to the hoarding of copper and nickel coins during the Civil War and the rise of privately issued bronze tokens from 1861 to 1864.
From 1859 to 1907, all Indian Head Pennies, including the 1889 issue, were struck in Philadelphia, which is why they bear no mint mark.
In 1889, the Mint produced a total of 48,869,361 Indian Head Pennies, the highest mintage in the series. However, given the passage of over a century and the fact that the coins are made from copper (a malleable and degradable metal), many of these coins were damaged or lost over time, making surviving examples rare.
In lower grades, such as “Good” or “Very Good,” the 1889 pennies are not highly valuable, usually selling for around $1.5. However, as you move to higher grades, their value increases significantly.
- Good to Very Good condition: Typically worth around $4.
- Fine condition: Around $6 to $7.
- Extremely Fine: Around $27.
- Uncirculated condition: Scarce and can range from $80 to $400. If the coin retains a fully red luster, it could be worth more.
Coins in MS64 to MS66 with Red-Brown luster can fetch up to $1,300, but those with pristine red luster can be valued at up to $17,000, as fewer than 1,000 examples exist in these higher grades.
You can find 1889 Indian Head Pennies for sale at pawnshops and online platforms like eBay. However, when buying valuable pennies, it’s crucial to ensure they are graded and authenticated by a trusted service to confirm their value.
1889 Proof Indian Head Penny Value
In addition to the regular strike 1889 Indian Head Pennies, the Philadelphia Mint also produced a limited number of proof coins in 1889, totaling 3,336 pieces. These proof coins were specifically made for collectors and have a mirror-like finish, which enhances their visual appeal. They also feature sharper design details, making them stand out compared to the regular strike coins.
Due to the limited number of proof 1889 pennies and the passage of time, only a small fraction of these proof coins have survived. As a result, they are highly sought after by both collectors and investors, with some rare specimens commanding high prices.
For example, a PR63 (Proof 63) grade 1889 Indian Head Penny is typically worth around $275. However, as the grade increases, so does the value. In higher grades, such as PR65 or PR66, these coins can fetch upwards of $9,000. The rarity and exceptional quality of the proofs make them some of the most valuable pieces from this series.
Rare 1889 Indian Head Error List
Indeed, error coins and varieties are a huge draw for numismatists and often command significant prices on the market. The 1889 Indian Head Penny is no exception, as it has its share of production errors and varieties, one of the most notable being the double-die reverse.
A double-die reverse occurs when the die used to strike the coin is misaligned, causing the design to be stamped more than once, creating a doubling effect on certain elements of the reverse. In the case of the 1889 Indian Head Penny, this error is most commonly found on the lettering and the wreath on the reverse side of the coin. The doubling effect can be subtle but noticeable under magnification.
These types of errors are highly prized by collectors because they are rare, and finding a well-preserved example can significantly increase the value of the coin. An 1889 Indian Head Penny with a double-die reverse could sell for a considerable amount, depending on the severity of the error and the overall condition of the coin.
The demand for such errors often drives prices higher, and collectors are always on the lookout for these unique pieces to add to their collections. If you come across an 1889 double-die reverse penny, it’s worth having it evaluated by a professional grading service to determine its exact value and rarity.
1889 Indian Head Penny Double Die Reverse Error
You’re absolutely right, the 1889 Indian Head Penny double die reverse is a highly coveted variation among collectors due to the rarity and uniqueness of the error. The double die reverse occurs when the reverse die mistakenly strikes the coin multiple times, resulting in visible doubling of the design elements, especially in the lettering and wreath.
The degree of doubling is one of the key factors in determining the coin’s value. The more pronounced the doubling, the more valuable the coin is. Coins with slight doubling may be less valuable, while coins with strong, noticeable doubling will fetch higher prices.
If you come across an 1889 Indian Head Penny with this error, especially in uncirculated condition, you’re looking at a potentially valuable coin. As you mentioned, the coin can sell for around $190 or more in the market, but it’s important to have it authenticated and graded by a reputable professional to ensure its value and authenticity.
Additionally, working with a trusted dealer will ensure that you acquire a certified example of the error, which is crucial in the world of numismatics. This is one of the errors that makes 1889 Indian Head Pennies particularly exciting for collectors!
1889 Indian Head Penny Misaligned Die Clash Error
The misaligned die clash error on the 1889 Indian Head Penny is another fascinating variation that adds to the appeal of this historic coin. This error happens when the obverse and reverse dies don’t align properly during the minting process. As a result, the design elements on the coin become misaligned, creating a distinctive and often noticeable flaw on the surface.
While this error is not as rare as some others, it still holds significant interest for collectors due to its unique appearance. Coins with misaligned dies can still command a strong premium, particularly if they are in excellent condition. In fact, one of these misaligned die clash errors was sold for $423 in 2021, showcasing the potential value this type of coin can fetch.
For collectors working on an Indian Head Penny collection, discovering a misaligned die clash variety can add an exciting and valuable piece to their set. Like with other errors, the condition and degree of misalignment are key factors in determining its worth. Always ensure you verify the authenticity of such coins with a reputable grading service, as errors can sometimes be mistaken for damage.
1889 Indian Head Penny Re-Punched Date Error
The re-punched date error on the 1889 Indian Head Penny is another fascinating variety that adds intrigue for collectors. This error occurs when the date on the obverse of the coin gets misaligned during the minting process. As a result, the date is re-punched in the correct area of the coin, leading to doubling or small marks, especially noticeable on the number “8” in the year.
While many re-punched date errors are fairly obvious to spot, some are more subtle and may require magnification, like a coin microscope, to fully identify. Because of its distinctiveness, this error is highly sought after by collectors.
These coins can be hard to find, and their value can vary depending on factors like condition and the rarity of the particular re-punched date variety. Coins in better grades or with more prominent errors can fetch higher premiums. If you find one of these error coins in your collection or on the market, it’s a valuable piece that can greatly increase the worth of your set.
Where to Sell Your 1889 Indian Head Penny?
Once you know the value of your 1889 Indian Head Penny, the next step is figuring out where to sell it. Here are some options for selling your coin online, along with their pros and cons:
1. eBay
- Pros:
- Large audience, so you can get competitive bids.
- Flexibility to sell both auctions and fixed-price listings.
- Buyer protection policies in place.
- Cons:
- Fees (eBay and PayPal charges).
- Requires time and effort to list and manage sales.
- Can be difficult to stand out without good photos or descriptions.
2. Heritage Auctions
- Pros:
- Well-established auction house with a focus on rare and valuable coins.
- Expertise in coin valuation, ensuring you get a fair price.
- Large base of serious collectors.
- Cons:
- High commission fees.
- You may need to wait for the next auction event.
3. GreatCollections
- Pros:
- Specializes in rare coins and is known for its high-quality auctions.
- They handle the grading, marketing, and selling process.
- Transparent pricing and auction results.
- Cons:
- Auction fees can be high.
- You’ll need to be patient as auctions can take time.
4. CoinAppraiser
- Pros:
- Online platform for buying and selling coins.
- Free coin appraisals.
- Great for quick sales.
- Cons:
- Limited auction-style selling, mainly direct sale.
- Lower prices compared to larger auction platforms.
5. Facebook Groups and Marketplaces
- Pros:
- Free to use, no seller fees.
- Direct access to collectors in various coin enthusiast groups.
- Cons:
- Risks involved with scams or untrustworthy buyers.
- Limited audience compared to large auction platforms.
1889 Indian Head Penny FAQs
1. What is the value of an 1889 Indian Head Penny?
The value varies based on several factors such as condition, rarity, and grade.
- Coins in good condition may sell for $2-$3.
- Fine to extremely fine condition pieces range from $4 to $25.
- Uncirculated coins typically go for $30-$100.
- Mint state coins with red luster can fetch up to $17,000.
2. Does the 1889 Indian Head penny have mint mark varieties?
No, all 1889 Indian Head Pennies were minted at the Philadelphia Mint, meaning they do not have mint marks.
3. Should I clean my Indian Head penny?
It’s highly recommended not to clean your coin. Cleaning can damage the surface and significantly reduce the coin’s value. If necessary, use soft methods and consult a coin expert if unsure.
4. Which year produced the most valuable batch of Indian Head pennies?
The 1887 Indian Head Penny is the rarest and most valuable with a mintage of only 852,500. It can sell for around $900 even in circulated condition. The 1889 Indian Head Penny also holds notable value, especially for rare varieties.
