The 1891 Indian Head Penny is a fascinating piece of American history and a beloved collectible among numismatists. This coin, also known as the Barber penny, is a significant part of the United States’ coinage history. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the history, significance, and various aspects of the 1891 Indian Head Penny.
Historical Context and Background
The Barber Series
The 1891 Indian Head Penny is part of the Barber series of coins, which were minted from 1892 to 1909. The Barber series was named after Charles E. Barber, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint from 1879 to 1907. Barber designed the coins with a distinctive shield on the reverse side, which became a hallmark of the series.
The Indian Head Penny
The Indian Head Penny was the first coin in the Barber series. It was designed by James B. Longacre, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint from 1844 to 1879. The coin features a profile of a Native American on the obverse side and a shield on the reverse. The design was inspired by the Indian Head Cent, which was minted from 1859 to 1873.
Design and Features
Obverse Side
The obverse side of the 1891 Indian Head Penny features a profile of a Native American, typically identified as a Native American woman. The design is based on a portrait of a Native American woman created by Longacre. The coin also includes the inscription “Liberty” at the top and the year “1891” at the bottom.
Reverse Side
The reverse side of the coin features a shield with the inscription “United States of America” at the top and “E Pluribus Unum” at the bottom. The shield design is a distinctive feature of the Barber series and was intended to symbolize the unity and strength of the United States.
Mintage and Distribution
Mintage Numbers
The 1891 Indian Head Penny was minted in significant quantities. The exact mintage numbers vary depending on the mint location, but it is estimated that around 20 million coins were produced. The majority of these coins were minted at the Philadelphia Mint, with smaller quantities produced at the San Francisco and New Orleans Mints.
Distribution
The coins were distributed widely across the United States and were used as everyday currency. The 1891 Indian Head Penny was popular among collectors and numismatists due to its historical significance and unique design.
Value and Collectibility
Value
The value of the 1891 Indian Head Penny varies depending on its condition and rarity. In general, well-preserved coins in mint condition can command high prices. The value can range from a few dollars for a common coin to several hundred dollars for a rare or well-preserved specimen.
Collectibility
The 1891 Indian Head Penny is highly collectible among numismatists. The coin’s historical significance, unique design, and widespread distribution make it a popular choice for collectors. Many collectors specialize in the Barber series and seek to complete sets of these coins.
Varieties and Errors
Varieties
The 1891 Indian Head Penny has several varieties, including:
* Regular Strike: The most common variety, with a regular strike and no noticeable errors.
* Die Break: A variety with a small break or crack in the die used to strike the coin.
* Off-Center: A variety where the coin is struck off-center, resulting in an uneven design.
* Double Die: A variety where the coin is struck twice, resulting in a doubled image.
Errors
The 1891 Indian Head Penny has several known errors, including:
* Clipped Planchet: A variety where the coin’s planchet (the blank metal disk used to make the coin) is clipped or cut before it is struck.
* Off-Metal: A variety where the coin’s metal composition is different from the intended composition.
* Die Crack: A variety where the die used to strike the coin has a crack or break.
Preservation and Care
Preservation
To preserve the value and condition of the 1891 Indian Head Penny, it is important to store the coin properly. Coins should be stored in protective holders or sleeves to prevent scratches and damage. It is also recommended to store coins in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Care
When handling the coin, it is important to use clean, dry hands to avoid leaving fingerprints or oils on the coin’s surface. It is also recommended to use cotton gloves when handling the coin to prevent damage. If the coin needs to be cleaned, it is best to use a professional numismatic cleaning service to avoid damaging the coin’s surface.
Conclusion
The 1891 Indian Head Penny is a fascinating and significant piece of American history. Its unique design, historical significance, and widespread distribution make it a beloved collectible among numismatists. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a beginner, the 1891 Indian Head Penny is a coin that is sure to captivate your interest and appreciation for American coinage history.
Further Reading
For those interested in learning more about the 1891 Indian Head Penny and other Barber series coins, there are several resources available:
* Books: “The Complete Guide to United States Coins” by Q. David Bowers and “The Comprehensive Catalog of United States Coins” by R.W. Julian.
* Websites: The American Numismatic Association (ANA) and the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) offer extensive resources and information on American coinage.
* Museums: The National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution and the American Numismatic Association’s Money Museum offer exhibits and resources on American coinage history.
By exploring these resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of the 1891 Indian Head Penny and its place in American coinage history. Happy collecting!