1860–1864 Copper-Nickel Indian Head Cents – Civil War Era “White Cents”
The Copper-Nickel Indian Head Cents struck from 1860 through 1864 represent a historically rich and visually distinct early chapter in the beloved Indian Cent series. These issues share James B. Longacre’s iconic obverse designintroduced in 1859, featuring Lady Liberty in a feathered headdress, but with a new reverse design introduced in 1860: a bolder oak wreath, Federal shield at the top, and a more prominent inscription of ONE CENT—a layout that would become standard for decades.
Nicknamed “White Cents” due to their pale appearance and thicker copper-nickel alloy (88% copper, 12% nickel), these coins were minted at the Philadelphia Mint during one of the most tumultuous periods in American history—the Civil War. As precious metals vanished from circulation, these heavier, nickel-rich cents competed with lighter, privately-issued Civil War tokens, and circulated heavily across the Union states.
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Mintage range: ~10 million (1860) to nearly 50 million (1863)
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Diameter: 19mm | Weight: 4.67 grams
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Composition: Copper-Nickel alloy
Collectibility & Market Appeal
All five dates (1860–1864) are relatively common in circulated grades, making them accessible to collectors and investors alike. However, high-end Mint State examples, especially those with original surfaces, strong strikes, and free of carbon spotting, are strongly pursued by Indian Cent specialists and condition-conscious collectors.
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Proof issues exist for each date, and are especially prized in Cameo or Deep Cameo designation.
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The 1864 Copper-Nickel marks the end of the short-lived “White Cent” era before transitioning to the Bronze format later that year.
For collectors seeking Civil War-era numismatics, early U.S. copper-nickel coinage, or type coins that bridge artistry and history, the 1860–1864 Indian Head Cents are a perfect fit.
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