1909 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
$3,600 MS64BN 04-03-2024 Stack's Bowers
Description
Produced at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1909 Indian Head Cent is part of the Indian Head Cents 1859-1909 series. With a mintage of 14.4 million, this is a less common issue — the higher-mintage of the two mint variants, representing 98% of production. 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. The final year of the Indian Head Cent before being replaced by the Lincoln Cent. The 1909-S is the key San Francisco date. Coined at the Philadelphia facility, the nation's original mint that has operated continuously since its 1792 founding. Estimated market value ranges from $12 to $103 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 #2235.
External References
Error Varieties(2)
Community Submissions
Other Strike Types in This Series
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