1877 Indian Head Cent (Penny)
United States Mint · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money
Era / Decade
Late 1870s (specifically 1877)
Material
Bronze (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc); classic composition for late 19th-century US small cents.
Condition
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F) details but contains significant damage. Note the deep horizontal scratch across the profile (obverse) and heavy oxidation/pitting. Surface appears 'cleaned' or environmental damaged.
Demand Level
Hot (Collectors will always buy an 1877, even in poor/damaged condition, to fill a set).
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$400.00 - $750.00 (Value significantly reduced due to surface damage and lack of professional grading/encapsulation)
Estimated Retail Value
$1,000.00 - $1,500.00 (Price of a problem-free authenticated coin in similar grade)
Comparable Sales
Authentic, slabbed 1877s in G-4 condition recently sold for $500-$700; 'Details' graded (damaged) examples like this one often sell for 40-60% of their undamaged book value.
Description
Authentic (appearing) 1877 Indian Head Cent. This is the absolute 'Key Date' of the Indian Head series, with the lowest mintage at only 852,500 struck. Featured here is Lady Liberty in a Native American headdress. The date is clearly visible, though the coin shows evidence of heavy cleaning or environmental corrosion and a prominent scratch through the obverse.
Key Features
Extreme rarity as the 'Key Date' for collectors; high numismatic demand regardless of condition; clearly visible 1877 date.
Authenticity Indicators
Dating of the '77' digits follows proper spacing; 'LIBERTY' on the headband is faint but detectable (key for grading). Red Flag: This is one of the most counterfeited coins in the world; without professional PCGS/NGC grading, buyers will be highly skeptical. Confidence: Medium.
Flaws to Note
Deep horizontal scratch across the face; environmental damage/pitting; likely cleaned which reduces value to collectors; lack of a reverse photo to confirm mint mark (though all 1877 cents were minted in Philadelphia).
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (with high-quality photos), Heritage Auctions, or a local reputable Rare Coin Dealer. Great for specialty numismatic forums.
Selling Tips
DO NOT CLEAN the coin further as it ruins value. Submit to PCGS or NGC for professional grading (slabbing) before selling; an uncertified 1877 is very hard to sell for full price due to the prevalence of fakes. Use 'Key Date' and 'Low Mintage' in the title.