1909 Indian Head Cent Value Guide

The 1909 Indian Head Cent marks the final year of production for this iconic series designed by James B. Longacre. Struck in bronze, this coin is highly collectible as it represents the transition point before the United States Mint introduced the Lincoln cent.

What Is 1909 Indian Head Cent Worth?

The typical price range for 1909 Indian Head Cent is $3 - $12 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition and grade, specifically the visibility of the word LIBERTY on the headband.
• Presence of original mint luster or significant wear on the high points of the feathers.
• Mint mark location; while most are from Philadelphia, the rare S mint mark from San Francisco increases value.
• Surface preservation, including the absence of scratches, corrosion, or signs of harsh cleaning.

How to Identify 1909 Indian Head Cent?

• Look for the date 1909 clearly struck at the bottom of the obverse side.
• Verify the design features Lady Liberty wearing a feathered headdress rather than a Native American male.
• Check the reverse for a laurel wreath surrounding the words ONE CENT with a shield at the top.
• Confirm the material is bronze, consisting of 95 percent copper with a balance of tin and zinc.

History of 1909 Indian Head Cent

The Indian Head cent was produced by the United States Mint from 1859 to 1909. Designed by James B. Longacre, the design originally showed Liberty in a feathered headdress and became one of the most recognizable early U.S. small cents. The series transitioned to the Lincoln cent starting in 1909, making late-date Indian Head cents like this one historically significant as the final year of the type.