1860 1C Pointed Bust (Regular Strike)

The 1860 1C Pointed Bust Regular Strike is a captivating numismatic artifact with an intriguing history. Transitioning from large cents to smaller, more affordable coinage, the United States Mint introduced the Indian Head cent in 1859, with the 1860 edition marking an evolution in its design. This particular year is distinctive due to the transition from the "Rounded Bust" to the "Pointed Bust" type, a variation that appeals to collectors due to its historical significance and aesthetic changes. **Mintage & Mint Details:** Minted at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1860 1C Indian Head cent saw a mintage of 20,566,000 pieces. This transition year for the Indian Head cent involved a design modification by James B. Longacre, the Chief Engraver of the Mint. The key change was the addition of sharper bust details, specifically featuring a more pronounced silhouette that became known as the "Pointed Bust." **Rarity & Availability:** Despite the relatively high mintage, finding high-grade examples of the 1860 Pointed Bust cent is rather challenging. Circulated pieces are generally common, yet those in mint state condition, especially in higher grades, are considerably scarcer. The point rarities increase sharply in grades of MS65 and above, where collector demand intensifies. **Valuation & Auction Records:** Values for the 1860 1C Pointed Bust can vary significantly based on condition and grade. Lower-graded circulated coins may retail for around $20 to $40, while those graded at MS63 scale into the mid-hundreds. Top-quality specimens, particularly those graded as MS65 or MS66 by PCGS, have commanded noteworthy premiums in the market. For instance, PCGS MS65 examples have been known to surpass $2,000 in auction settings. **Auction History:** 1860 1C Pointed Bust coins have featured in numerous auctions, achieving impressive figures. High-grade examples specifically attract enhanced attention from collectors. For instance, a MS66 RD certified by PCGS, sold for over $10,000 in recent years, highlighting the coin's incredible value to serious numismatists. **Collectibility & Numismatic Significance:** From a numismatist’s perspective, the 1860 1C Pointed Bust is a fascinating study of the artistic and production challenges of the era. The coin reflects a melding of design evolution and technical adjustments at the Mint. Its allure is heightened by the backdrop of American history, encompassing the development of coinage practices during a transformative period that approaches the Civil War. **PCGS Reference:** According to PCGS CoinFacts, the 1860 Pointed Bust Indian Head cent is identified with the PCGS number 2053. Collectors and investors rely on PCGS grading services to authenticate and certify the status of this historically significant coin, ensuring confidence in its authenticity and market value. For numismatists and collectors, the 1860 1C Pointed Bust Regular Strike is more than mere currency; it is a tangible link to America's numismatic heritage, reflecting pivotal shifts in both design and cultural touchstones. This coin's appeal lies not only in its aesthetic qualities but also in the story it tells about a nation on the brink of change.