Add a first-year issue from one of America's most iconic coin series with this 1859 Indian Head Cent. As the inaugural year of the Indian Head Cent, this coin holds a special place in U.S. numismatic history. Designed by James B. Longacre, the obverse features Liberty wearing a Native American headdress, while the reverse displays a laurel wreath surrounding the denomination. Notably, 1859 is the only year of the series to feature the laurel wreath reverse before it was redesigned in 1860.
Struck in a copper-nickel alloy, the 1859 Indian Head Cent marked the beginning of a series that would become one of the most beloved and widely collected in American coinage. Its one-year-only reverse design and first-year status make it especially desirable among collectors.
In Extremely Fine (XF) condition, this coin retains strong detail throughout the design with only light wear visible on the highest points. Much of the original detail remains evident, making it an attractive example for collectors seeking a well-preserved early Indian Head Cent.
With more than 165 years of history behind it, the 1859 Indian Head Cent is an outstanding addition to any Indian Head Cent collection, type set, or collection of classic U.S. coinage.
Photo Disclaimer: The image shown is a representative stock photo. You will receive an 1859 Indian Head Cent in Extremely Fine (XF) condition, but it may not be the exact coin pictured. Variations in color, toning, strike quality, and overall appearance are normal and contribute to the unique character of each coin.