James B. Longacre, Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, is greatest remembered at present for his creation of the long-lasting Indian Head cent.
The 1862 Indian Head cent was struck throughout a pivotal part of the Civil Battle, which noticed a shift in momentum and strategic positive factors for the Union Military. Main battles included the Battle of Shiloh in Tennessee, the Union seize of New Orleans, and the Seven Days Battles outdoors Richmond. The bloody Battle of Antietam in September 1862 had no clear winner. However this vital Civil Battle battle opened the door for President Lincoln to announce the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation.
Indian Head cents are a basic early American coin coveted by collectors as a result of their design, historic significance, and rarity. Minted from 1859 by way of 1909, Indian Head cents had been produced in massive numbers in most years.
In 1862, towards the backdrop of a war-torn nation, the Philadelphia Mint produced 28,075,000 Indian Head cents. The manufacturing met big demand for small change within the cash-starved economic system. Amid the chaos of wartime, residents had been hoarding valuable metals.
Whereas the 1862 cents’ mintage was substantial, survival charges inform a unique story. Most cash circulated closely, leaving few in pristine situation.
At the moment, a mere 400 survivors are estimated in grades 65 or higher.
In 1909, the Indian Head cent was changed by the Lincoln cent, designed by Victor D. Brenner, closing this necessary period in U.S. numismatic historical past.
Longacre’s vivid design incorporates a illustration of Liberty carrying an Indian headdress, mixing basic artistry with frontier imagery. The obverse contains the phrase “LIBERTY” on the Native American headdress, encircled by “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the date “1862″ on the backside.
The reverse options an intricately lovely oak wreath encircling the coin’s denomination “ONE CENT.” A small protect sits on the prime, symbolizing victory. The 1862 Indian Heads are recognized for being often well-struck and with wonderful luster. The 1862 Indian Cent was struck with an alloy of 88% copper and 12% nickel, creating the coin’s pale hue. It clocks in with a considerable weight at 4.67 grams.
At the moment, collectors eager about Civil Battle historical past and early American coinage soar on the alternative to personal an Indian Head cent, a tangible piece of early American historical past. Whether or not you want to amass a coin like this as a standalone treasure or half of a bigger assortment, this rarity is a testomony to the enduring legacy of early American coinage. Blanchard has one among these magnificent cash on provide now. See it right here.
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