1887 Indian Head Cent Value Guide

The 1887 Indian Head Cent is a quintessential piece of American numismatic history, featuring James B. Longacre's iconic design of Liberty in a feathered headdress. With over 45 million struck, this 95% copper coin remains a highly accessible and popular entry point for collectors of 19th-century US currency.

What Is 1887 Indian Head Cent Worth?

The typical price range for 1887 Indian Head Cent is $2 - $4 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Surface preservation and the presence of original red mint luster significantly increase value over brown, circulated examples.
• The clarity of the four letters in 'LIBERTY' on the headband is a primary factor in determining the technical grade.
• Presence of environmental damage, such as corrosion or heavy spotting, can decrease the value below the $2.00 starting point.
• Die varieties or errors, though rare for this date, can command a premium from specialized copper collectors.

How to Identify 1887 Indian Head Cent?

• Verify the composition is bronze, consisting of 95% copper with a 5% mix of tin and zinc.
• Check the obverse for the 'LIBERTY' inscription clearly visible on the headband of the headdress.
• Ensure the reverse features the standard oak wreath and shield design used during the 1887 production year.
• Look for the sharp definition in the feathers and the hair curls behind the ear to confirm a well-preserved strike.

History of 1887 Indian Head Cent

Designed by James B. Longacre, the Indian Head penny was produced by the United States Mint from 1859 to 1909. Despite the name, the figure on the obverse is actually Liberty wearing a feathered headdress. The 1887 issue is a common date in the series, with over 45 million minted, making it a staple for copper coin collectors.