Tuesday, June 6, 2023

The History and Value of the Elusive 1900 Indian Head Penny

Front view of a 1900 Indian Head Penny, featuring the bust of a Native American with the inscription 'Liberty' and the date '1900' on the coin. 
 The 1900 Indian Head Penny is a rare and highly desired coin that is valued by collectors for its historical and numismatic value. This image shows the front view of the 1900 Indian Head Penny. ©Evan's Studio, 2023.

     The 1900 Indian Head Penny is a rare and highly desired coin that is valued by collectors for its historical and numismatic value. It is composed of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc. The Indian Head Penny was first minted in 1859 and continued until 1909. It features the bust of a Native American on the front, with the words "Liberty" and the date of minting inscribed on the coin. The back of the coin features a wreath and the words "One Cent."

Back view of a 1900 Indian Head Penny, featuring a wreath and the words "One Cent."
 The 1900 Indian Head Penny is a rare and highly desired coin that is valued by collectors for its historical and numismatic value. This image shows the back view of the 1900 Indian Head Penny. ©Evan's Studio, 2023.

     The 1900 Indian Head Penny is particularly valuable because it is a turn of the century penny and has a relatively low mintage of 66,831,502 coins. Collectors and investors often pay a premium for rare and historical coins like the 1900 Indian Head Penny. If you have one of these coins in your possession, it could be worth a significant amount of money. The value of a 1900 Indian Head Penny will depend on its condition and rarity, as well as other factors such as demand, supply, precious metal composition, and market trends.

    How to Determine the Value of a 1900 Indian Head Penny

To determine the value of a 1900 Indian Head Penny, you can consult a coin valuation guide or seek the advice of a professional coin dealer. Some online pricing resources include:

Most Valuable and Expensive Indian Head Penny

The 1905 Gold Indian Cent is currently the most valuable and expensive Indian Head Penny. There are only five known examples of this coin and one sold for $253,000 in 2010.

    Here are some factors that can affect the value of a 1900 Indian Head Penny:

  • Condition: The condition of the coin is the most important factor affecting its value. Coins in uncirculated condition are usually the most valuable, followed by coins in very fine condition, fine condition, good condition, and very good condition.

  • Rarity: The rarity of the coin is also a factor affecting its value. Coins that are more rare are typically worth more than coins that are more common.

  • Demand: The demand for the coin is another factor affecting its value. Coins that are in high demand are typically worth more and the 1900 Indian Head Penny is usually in high demand because of its turn of the century date.

  • Supply: The supply of the coin is another factor affecting its value. Coins that are in short supply are typically worth more than coins that are in abundant supply - this is why it is important to pay attention the mintage statistics.

  • Market trends: Market trends can also affect the value of a coin. For example, if the market for coins is bullish, then the value of all coins will tend to increase. Conversely, if the market for coins is bearish, then the value of all coins will tend to decrease.

Where to Buy or Sell a 1900 Indian Head Penny

If you are interested in buying or selling a 1900 Indian Head Penny, there are a few different places where you can do so.

  • Coin dealers: Coin dealers are a good option for buying or selling coins. They typically have a wide selection of coins available, and they can provide you with an appraisal of the value of your coin.

  • Pawn shops: You can sometimes find rare and valuable coins at pawn shops but you need to be prepared to negotiate and do your own research.

  • Online auction sites: Online auction sites, such as eBay, are another good option for buying or selling coins. You can find a wide variety of coins available on these sites, and you can often get a good deal on a coin if you are willing to wait for the right auction.

  • Estate sales: You can find many valuable coins including the 1900 Indian Head Penny at estate sales.

  • Coin shows: Coin shows are a great place to buy or sell coins. You can meet with dealers from all over the country, and sometimes you can get a better deal on a coin at a coin show than you can online or at a coin dealer.

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    If you are interested in buying the coin pictured above, then feel free to email me with an offer.