Price Guide for 1862 Cent Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $10.00 – $234.00Uncirculated: $51.00 – $50,400.00
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eBayCirculated: $10.00 – $400.00Uncirculated: $45.14 – $6,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $12.00 – $155.00Uncirculated: $160.00 – $60,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $525.00Uncirculated: $3.10 – $8,625.00
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eBayCirculated: $1,136.00Uncirculated: $683.00 – $2,750.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $650.00 – $9,750.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1,177.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $39.00 – $240.00Uncirculated: $250.00 – $500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $114.00 – $582.00Uncirculated: $1,116.25
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eBayCirculated: $575.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $60.00 – $1,075.00Uncirculated: $1,100.00 – $1,750.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $57.00 – $156.00
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eBayUncirculated: $110.56 – $357.87
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $40.00 – $1,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $192.00 – $28,800.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1,517.00 – $3,210.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $675.00 – $18,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $2,760.00 – $8,625.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $700.00 – $10,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1862 Cent
The 1862 Indian Head Cent was minted during the American Civil War, a time of great national turmoil. This coin represents a significant period in American numismatic history, as it was part of the transition from large cents to small cents. The Indian Head design, introduced in 1859, was still relatively new and would continue to be minted until 1909.
During this era, coin hoarding was common due to economic uncertainty, which affected the circulation and preservation of many coins from this period.
| Weight | 4.67 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 19 mm |
| Mint Marks | No mint mark (Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 88% copper, 12% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Indian Head, designed by James Barton Longacre |
| Reverse Design | Oak wreath and shield, designed by James Barton Longacre |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition is crucial for the value of 1862 Indian Head Cents. While lower grade specimens are relatively common, coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are considerably more valuable. The presence of original red color significantly enhances value, with full red specimens commanding substantial premiums.
Strike quality can vary, with well-struck examples being more desirable. Luster is an important factor, particularly for uncirculated coins. Natural toning can add to the appeal and value, especially if it’s attractive and even.
Mintage: 28,075,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved specimens
The historical context of the Civil War era adds interest and value to this coin. Provenance, such as being part of a famous collection, can increase desirability. Die varieties, while not common for this year, can add value if discovered.
Originality is highly prized; coins that have never been cleaned or altered are worth more than those that have been improperly handled. The copper-nickel composition of this coin can sometimes lead to interesting toning patterns, which can enhance appeal to collectors.
