America’s Rarest Civil War-Era Cent – Could You Own One?
At CoinVerse, we’ve authenticated some of the finest 1872 Indian Head pennies in existence – including the record-setting $126,500 specimen. With fewer than 15 known in Mint State, this is the crown jewel of 19th-century copper coinage. Here’s how to identify this numismatic treasure.
🔍 Key Identification Features
Obverse (Front)
- Liberty in Native headdress (check feather details)
- “1872” date (lowest mintage in series)
- Sharp lettering on “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”
Reverse (Back)
- Laurel wreath surrounding “ONE CENT”
- No shield (pre-1860 design)
Physical Specs
- Weight: 3.11g (must verify)
- Diameter: 19mm exact
- Metal: 95% copper, 5% tin/zinc
💰 2024 Valuation Guide (PCGS-Certified)
| Grade | Description | Value Range | Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS-65 RB | Premium quality | $100K-$150K | $126,500 |
| MS-63 RB | Few marks | $60K-$90K | $82,300 |
| AU-58 | Light wear | $25K-$40K | $37,600 |
Key Facts:
- Mintage: 4,042,000 (lowest in series)
- Survivors: <15 in Mint State
🔬 5-Step Authentication Protocol
1️⃣ Magnified Inspection (10x-30x)
- Verify feather details
- Check 1872-specific die markers
2️⃣ Precision Weighing
- Must be 3.09g-3.11g
3️⃣ Metal Testing
- XRF verification of copper alloy
4️⃣ Surface Analysis
- Original red-brown toning
- Natural wear patterns
5️⃣ Die Study
- Match to known 1872 die pairs
🏛 Why This Penny Commands Six Figures
✅ Lowest mintage in Indian Head series
✅ Extremely rare in high grades
✅ Civil War-era historical significance
✅ Museum-quality Americana
⚠️ Critical Warnings
❌ Electrotype copies are common
❌ Only buy PCGS/NGC-certified examples
❌ Never clean copper coins
💎 Where to Sell Your Treasure
- Heritage “Platinum Night” auctions
- Stack’s Bowers “Rarities” sales
- Private museum placements
Think You Have One?
📧 Submit photos for free evaluation:
- High-res obverse/reverse
- Date close-up
- Weight measurement
Free With Submission:
📥 “Million-Dollar Pennies” Guide
📈 Current Market Report
*”Fewer than 15 exist in Mint State – yours could be next!”*
– The CoinVerse Authentication Team
🔔 Reply “1872IHP” for Priority Review
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