1859 Indian Head Cent – One-Year Type | First Year of Issue

The 1859 Indian Head Cent holds a special place in U.S. numismatic history as the first year of the Indian Cent series and a distinct one-year type, making it a cornerstone for both type set collectors and series specialists alike. ... Read More

1859 Indian Head Cent – One-Year Type | First Year of Issue

The 1859 Indian Head Cent holds a special place in U.S. numismatic history as the first year of the Indian Cent series and a distinct one-year type, making it a cornerstone for both type set collectors and series specialists alike. Designed by James B. Longacre, the obverse features Lady Liberty wearing a feathered Native American headdress, with the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around and the date below — a design that would continue for decades.

What sets the 1859 issue apart is its unique reverse, which displays a simple laurel wreath encircling the denomination ONE CENT, tied at the base with a ribbon. This differs significantly from the oak wreath and shield design introduced in 1860 and used for the remainder of the series.

• Composition: 88% copper, 12% nickel (thick "white cent" planchet)

• Diameter: 19mm

• Mintage: Over 36 million business strikes

Collectibility & Availability

The 1859 Indian Cent is readily available in all circulated grades, making it an accessible entry point for collectors new to 19th-century small cents. It’s particularly appealing for those assembling a U.S. type set, as it is the only Indian Cent with the laurel wreath reverse.

• Uncirculated examples are moderately scarce and in strong demand.

• Proofs were struck in limited numbers and are considered scarce but collectible, especially in higher grades with original surfaces and attractive toning.

Whether you are building a full Indian Head Cent collection or looking for a one-year type coin with historical significance and strong collector demand, the 1859 Indian Cent offers an excellent blend of affordability, beauty, and distinction.