1896 Penny Appraisal

Indian Head Penny (1896)

This is a United States one-cent coin known as an Indian Head penny, dated 1896. The coin is composed of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, measuring 19.05 mm in diameter with a plain edge. It is housed in a white cardboard and mylar '2x2' flip holder, secured with staples. The obverse design features a left-facing profile of Liberty wearing a Native American feathered headdress, with 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' inscribed along the rim and the date '1896' visible at the bottom. The condition appears to be in a circulated state (likely 'Good' to 'Very Good' in numismatic terms) characterized by significant wear on the highest points of the design, such as the feathers in the headdress and the 'LIBERTY' headband, which is not clearly legible in this view. The coin exhibits a dark brown patina consistent with long-term circulation and oxidation. There are visible surface abrasions and minor rim dings prevalent on pieces of this age. The artistic design was created by James B. Longacre and reflects the mid-to-late Victorian era of American coinage. While not a key date, the 1896 mintage remains a staple for collectors of 19th-century Americana.