The 1875 Indian Head Penny is another key date in the early years of this historic coin series. Over 100 years old, this penny is becoming increasingly difficult to find, especially in higher grades. Like many coins from the early to mid-1870s, most examples were heavily circulated, making well-preserved specimens highly sought after.
Grading the 1875 Indian Head Penny
The condition of a 1875 Indian Head Penny is the biggest factor in determining its value. Below is a grading guide to help identify the condition of a coin.
Uncirculated (Highest Grade)
- Never used in circulation, preserving its original details and luster.
- No wear on the high points, though natural toning may be present due to age.
- The sharpest and most valuable grade, highly sought after by collectors.
Extremely Fine
- The coin shows minimal signs of wear, mostly on the high points of the design.
- The Indian’s headdress and facial details are still sharp.
- Light dulling or minor scratches, but overall an excellent example of the coin.
Fine
- Shows clear signs of circulation, with moderate wear on raised details.
- The date, lettering, and main imagery are still visible but somewhat smoothed.
- Coin will appear dull with some minor surface marks.
Good (Most Common Condition)
- Heavy wear and fading, with some details nearly worn away.
- The outline of the Indian’s profile and wreath are still visible, but finer details are heavily smoothed.
- Despite its wear, this grade is still collectible due to the scarcity of 1875 Indian Head Pennies.
1875 Indian Head Penny Value Chart
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| Good | $22 |
| Fine | $60 |
| Extremely Fine | $120 |
| Uncirculated | $160 |
- The price of an Uncirculated coin ($160) is significantly higher than a Good example ($22), reflecting the scarcity of high-grade specimens.
- Even lower-grade examples are still valuable, making this a great coin for both new and seasoned collectors.
Why the 1875 Indian Head Penny is Valuable
- Early Copper Alloy – Part of the 95% copper era, adding to its historical appeal.
- Survival Rate – The vast majority were heavily circulated, making high-quality examples rare.
- Collector Demand – The Indian Head series is widely collected, and coins from the 1870s are especially popular.
- Increasing Rarity – Each year, the number of available coins shrinks, increasing the value of remaining pieces.
The 1875 Indian Head Penny is a great addition to any collection. If you own one, it’s worth checking its grade to determine its market value. Well-preserved examples are becoming increasingly rare, making them a solid long-term investment.
