1888 Indian Head Cent
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$4,600 GEM BU 01-12-1999 Stack's
Description
The 1888 Indian Head Cent, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, is part of the Indian Head Cents 1859-1909 collection. The U.S. Mint produced 37.5 million examples, making this the lower-mintage of the two mint variants. The obverse features Liberty wearing a feathered headdress, often misidentified as a Native American — actually represents Liberty adorned with a chief's war bonnet and the reverse displays an oak wreath with a shield at the top, enclosing ONE CENT. Struck during the Gilded Age of rapid industrialization and the great silver debates, when monetary policy shaped elections and economic destiny. The Philadelphia Mint, America's oldest coin-making facility, has struck coins continuously since 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $2.0K to $79K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc, weighing 3.11 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #2166.
External References
Error Varieties(9)
Verified Errors
1888 Indian Head Cent Misplaced Date FS-303 Snow-27
1888 Indian Head Cent Repunched Date FS-302 Snow-2
1888 Indian Head Cent Repunched Date Snow-5
CU-1c-1888-01 Rim Cud
CU-1c-1888-02 Rim Cud
Community Submissions
Other Strike Types in This Series
Collector Essentials
Tools and references for building and protecting your coin collection.
10x-20x Jeweler's Loupe
A must-have for examining coin details, mint marks, and surface quality
Red Book — Guide to U.S. Coins
The essential annual reference for U.S. coin values, history, and mintages
Coin Albums & Storage
Archival-quality albums and holders to protect and display your collection
USB Digital Microscope
Capture detailed images for documentation and community submissions
As an Amazon Associate, NumisDex earns from qualifying purchases.