Title: The Background and Worth of the 1880 Native American Profile Cent

Do you have an interest in unique coinage? Possess a 1880 Native American Profile Cent in your collection? If so, you may not be aware of the origins and worth of this intriguing coin. Here, we will explore the history of the 1880 Native American Profile Cent as well as its current value.

Historical Roots of the 1880 Native American Profile Cent

In 1859, James B. Longacre’s design for the Native American Profile Cent replaced the previous bulky penny. This coin had a distinctive design with a Native American on the front instead of a standard bust of Lady Liberty. The back of the penny featured a wreath made of oak, wheat, and laurel leaves.

The Philadelphia Mint, the San Francisco Mint (with an “S” on it), and the Carson City Mint (bearing the “CC” mark) produced the 1880 Native American Profile Cent. In that year alone, the Philadelphia Mint produced the most coins with 16,039,000, totaling 39,402,000 Native American Profile Cents.

Valuation of the 1880 Native American Profile Cent

The value of an 1880 Native American Profile Cent primarily depends on its condition and place of origin. Nowadays, a well-maintained 1880 Native American Profile Cent costs between $7 and $20. However, a nearly pristine one can fetch up to $500 or more.

If it was produced either in San Francisco or Carson City, the coin’s value would increase as a result of their limited production numbers. A San Francisco-minted Native American Profile Cent can cost between $30 and $200. A Carson City-minted one might sell for over $1,000.

Factors That Impact the Worth of the 1880 Native American Profile Cent

The value of the 1880 Native American Profile Cent is determined by several factors, including:

• Quality: A Native American Profile Cent in excellent condition is more valuable than one that is decayed or damaged.
• Marking: Those made in San Francisco or Carson City are rarer and therefore more valuable.
• Scarcity: The fewer Native American Profile Cents manufactured in any given year, the more valuable they will be.
• Demand: If collectors are urgently seeking a particular year, the value of that Native American Profile Cent can increase due to increased demand.

FAQs

Q1. Are Native American Profile Cents composed of gold?
No, Native American Profile Cents are constructed of copper and nickel.

Q2. How can I ascertain the quality of my Native American Profile Cent?
You may examine the coin’s details, such as the feathers on the Native American’s headdress and the wreath on the back, to determine the condition of your Native American Profile Cent.

Q3. Why do select Native American Profile Cents contain a “V” on the back?
Native American Profile Cents produced between 1859 and 1864 featured a laurel and oak wreath with a shield in the center bearing the Roman numeral “V” for “five.”

Q4. Which are the most valuable Native American Profile Cents?
The most valuable Native American Profile Cents are those crafted at the Carson City Mint with low production amounts, such as those from 1870 and 1871.

Q5. How should I store my Native American Profile Cents?
To prevent your Native American Profile Cents from being scratched or damaged, it is advised that they be kept in a secure sleeve.

Summary

The 1880 Native American Profile Cent is an intriguing coin with an interesting history and varying value. Regardless of its present worth, its historical and cultural significance makes it a wonderful addition to any coin collector’s assortment. Whether you own one or seek to contribute to your collection, the 1880 Native American Profile Cent’s value and historical context make it a valuable and intriguing piece.