1886-P (Philadelphia) Indian Cents

Coin / United States of America / 1886 / Philadelphia / Indian Cents / 1¢ (One Cent, Penny)

You have a remarkable coin in your collection: the 1886 Indian Cent, a beautiful example of American numismatic history. This coin is part of the Indian Cents series, which features the iconic design by engraver Victor David Brenner, known for its distinct Native American portrait on the obverse and a laurel wreath on the reverse. This particular coin has a production type of "Proof," which indicates it was struck with special care, resulting in a finish that is often mirror-like and considerably more detailed than standard strikes. It was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, denoted by the 'P' mint mark. With a mintage of only 4,290 pieces, this coin is quite rare, contributing to its desirability among collectors. The coin's composition is 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, resulting in a rich bronze hue that often ages beautifully. In terms of specifications, the coin measures 19 mm in diameter and has a weight of 3.11 grams, consistent with all Indian Cents from this period. Despite the numerical values for height and width being recorded as zero—this is typical for coins with a uniform thickness. The 1886 Indian Cent is not only a monetary unit worth one cent, or 0.0100 USD, but also a piece of art and history that tells the story of American coinage in the late 19th century. This particular example, given its proof status and low mintage, holds significant value in the numismatic community, making it a coveted collectible for both seasoned numismatists and newcomers alike.