🔍 Coin Identification & Historical Importance
What You’re Holding
The Last of an Era: The 1909-S Indian Head Cent marks the final year of the iconic Indian Head penny series (1859–1909).
A Transitional Rarity: Struck alongside the first Lincoln Wheat cents, making it a historical crossover coin.
San Francisco Mint: Look for a small “S” mint mark below the wreath on the reverse — this is what makes it ultra-rare.
💎 Why Collectors Go Wild for It
✅ Lowest Mintage of the entire Indian Head series – only 309,000 made
✅ Key Date Coin – The rarest and most coveted of the series
✅ Historic + Scarce – A perfect storm of collector demand and limited supply
💰 2024 Market Value Breakdown
| Grade | Typical Value Range | Auction Record |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $300 – $450 | – |
| Fine (F-12) | $450 – $650 | – |
| Extremely Fine (XF) | $700 – $1,200 | – |
| Uncirculated (MS) | $1,500 – $5,000+ | $51,750 (MS67) |
💡 Coins with original red luster (RD designation) can command major premiums.
⚠️ 3-Step Authenticity Test
(Counterfeits are everywhere — here’s how to spot a genuine one)
1. Mint Mark Accuracy
- ✅ Real: Sharp, crisp “S” correctly placed below the wreath
- ❌ Fake: Blurry, oversized, or awkwardly spaced mint mark
2. Detail Check
- ✅ Genuine: Defined feathers on the headdress, sharp wreath leaves
- ❌ Fake: Flat or mushy detail, especially around LIBERTY and date
3. Wear Consistency
- ✅ Authentic: Even wear across both sides
- ❌ Fake: One side much more worn — a red flag!
🧐 Use a 10x loupe and compare to PCGS photo archives.
📈 Where to Sell for Maximum Profit
For Graded Coins (PCGS/NGC):
- Heritage Auctions – Top choice for high-grade, MS65+ examples
- Stack’s Bowers – Strong for key-date copper coins
- GreatCollections – Trusted platform, great for XF–AU grades
For Raw (Ungraded) Coins:
- ✅ Submit for grading: PCGS/NGC fees start at $30–$50
- 🚫 Avoid eBay: Too many lowballers and undervaluations
- 👍 Consider professional coin dealers, especially PNG members
🚨 Own One? Here’s What to Do NOW:
- Handle Carefully: Only touch by the edges – fingerprints can ruin value
- Take Clear Photos: Front, back, and close-up of mint mark
- Get a Free Appraisal:
📞 PCGS: 1-800-447-8848
📧 NGC: service@ngccoin.com
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Could this be in my grandfather’s coin jar?
A: Absolutely! Many 1909-S cents survived in collections and old boxes.
Q: How much does professional grading cost?
A: Around $50–$150, depending on service and turnaround time — well worth it.
Q: Are cleaned coins still valuable?
A: Yes, but they sell for 30–50% less. Never clean it yourself!
🔥 Final Takeaways
✔️ Rarest Indian Head cent ever made – tougher to find than a 1916-D dime
✔️ Look for the small “S” below the wreath – that’s the jackpot clue
✔️ Grading pays – an MS65 could be worth 100x more than a worn coin
📸 Want a Free Verification?
Send photos to: experts@pcgs.com
Subject Line: 1909-S CHECK
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