Indian Head Penny Pendant Value Guide

The Indian Head Penny Pendant is a prized piece of numismatic jewelry featuring the iconic James B. Longacre design minted between 1859 and 1909. While the obverse depicts Lady Liberty in a Native American headdress, its historical transition from the Flying Eagle cent makes it a cornerstone of American coinage history.

What Is Indian Head Penny Pendant Worth?

The typical price range for Indian Head Penny Pendant is $50 - $150 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The specific mintage year, with rare dates like 1877 or 1909-S significantly increasing the pendant's worth.
• The condition of the coin's surface, specifically the visibility of the word 'LIBERTY' on the headdress.
• The quality and material of the jewelry setting, such as sterling silver or solid gold bezels versus plated metals.
• The presence of a mint mark, specifically the 'S' for San Francisco found on later issues.

How to Identify Indian Head Penny Pendant?

• Verify the obverse portrait features Liberty wearing a feathered headdress with 'LIBERTY' inscribed on the band.
• Check the reverse for the 'One Cent' denomination surrounded by a laurel wreath (1859) or an oak wreath with a shield (1860-1909).
• Examine the coin material, which should be copper-nickel (1859-1864) or bronze (1864-1909), often set in a silver or gold-toned bezel.
• Look for the designer's initial 'L' hidden in the hair ribbons on coins minted after 1864.

History of Indian Head Penny Pendant

The Indian Head Penny, designed by James B. Longacre, replaced the Flying Eagle cent and was minted from 1859 to 1909. While often referred to as an 'Indian' head, the portrait on the obverse is actually Liberty wearing a Native American headdress. This coin is highly collectible, particularly in good condition or with rare mint marks, and is a popular choice for jewelry due to its historical significance and aesthetic appeal.