1908 Indian Head Cent Value Guide

The 1908 Indian Head Cent is a cornerstone of American numismatics, representing the penultimate year of a design that circulated for half a century. Designed by James B. Longacre and modeled after his daughter Sarah, this copper and nickel coin is a tangible piece of history from the transition to smaller currency sizes.

What Is 1908 Indian Head Cent Worth?

The typical price range for 1908 Indian Head Cent is $10 - $12 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of the San Francisco 'S' mint mark, which is much rarer than the Philadelphia strike.
• The amount of original red luster remaining on the copper surfaces compared to brown oxidation.
• The level of wear on the word LIBERTY; a fully visible word indicates a higher grade and value.
• Overall surface quality, including the absence of scratches, corrosion, or heavy cleaning.

How to Identify 1908 Indian Head Cent?

• Verify the 1908 date clearly struck at the base of the obverse portrait.
• Look for the distinct oak wreath and shield design on the reverse side of the coin.
• Check for the 'S' mint mark on the reverse below the wreath, though most 1908 coins were minted in Philadelphia.
• Identify the sharp details of the Native American headdress, which features the word LIBERTY on the headband.

History of 1908 Indian Head Cent

The Indian Head Cent was designed by James B. Longacre, the Chief Engraver at the Philadelphia Mint. It was produced from 1859 to 1909. While the coin depicts a Native American princess, the model for the portrait was actually Longacre's daughter, Sarah, wearing a headdress. This coin is a significant piece of American numismatic history, transitioning from the large cent to a smaller, more practical coin size.