Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a classic bronze United States one-cent coin, popularly known as the 'Indian Head' penny, minted in the year 1902. It features a stylized representation of Lady Liberty wearing a Native American feathered headdress on the obverse, and an oak wreath with a small shield on the reverse.
Story
Minted in 1902, this penny circulated during a time of rapid industrial growth in America. Despite its name, the face on the coin is actually Lady Liberty, modeled after the designer's daughter wearing a ceremonial headdress.
Maker / Origin
Designed by James Barton Longacre, who served as the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint from 1844 until his death in 1869. Longacre's designs are celebrated for capturing a distinct, mid-19th-century American aesthetic that moved away from purely European neoclassical styles.
Condition & Value
The coin shows heavy circulation wear, with a dark, uneven brown patina and some surface grime. The details on the headdress feathers and the word 'LIBERTY' on the band are mostly worn away, placing it in 'Good' to 'Very Good' circulated condition. This level of wear keeps the value modest.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.