What Is the Difference Between a Type 1 & Type 2 Indian Head Cent?

The Indian Head cent was produced by the U.S. Mint for 50 years, between 1859 and 1909, when it was replaced by the Lincoln penny. Type 1 and Type 2 of these coins are almost identical. Type 3 coins have a different composition of metals.

History

This one cent coin, which has Liberty in a feathered headdress on the front, was designed by James B. Longacre. The figure is surrounded by the words "United States of America" and the date. According to the U.S. Treasury, 1,849,648,000 of these coins were produced.

Interesting Facts

There has long been a story, though unproven, that Longacre's daughter was the model for the woman's likeness. Until the introduction of the 5 cent coin in 1866, these coin were often called "nicks" because of the nickel content, says Lynn Coins and Sports Card Shop.

Type 1

The Type 1 Indian Head cent was produced in the year 1859 only. On the reverse was a laurel wreath surrounding the words "One Cent." It was composed of 88% copper and 12% nickel.

Type 2

Type 2 Indian Head cents were produced from 1860 to 1864. The composition remained the same, but the laurel wreath on the back was replaced by an oak wreath with shield.

Type 3

The coin's composition was changed during the year 1864, to 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc. The same formula was used until the coin was discontinued, according to the Coin Collecting Guide for Beginners website.

References

• United States Department of the Treasury: Fact Sheets: Currency and Coins: Indian Head Cent
• Lynn Coins and Sports Card Shop: Indian Head Cent Coins
• Coin Collecting Guide for Beginners: Indian Head Penny