Price Guide for 1879 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: $12.00 – $144.00Uncirculated: $50.00 – $1,156.00
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eBayCirculated: $3.25 – $592.00Uncirculated: $22.53 – $627.98
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $10.00 – $135.00Uncirculated: $140.00 – $1,750.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $81.00 – $155.00Uncirculated: $86.00 – $1,610.00
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eBayCirculated: $135.00Uncirculated: $165.00 – $791.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $150.00 – $1,800.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $77.00Uncirculated: $61.00 – $14,100.00
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eBayUncirculated: $102.50 – $1,876.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $150.00 – $15,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $127.00 – $22,800.00
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eBayUncirculated: $200.00 – $1,755.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $110.00 – $28,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3.15 – $3,120.00
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eBayUncirculated: $195.00 – $1,475.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $185.00 – $6,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,870.00Uncirculated: $191.00 – $11,162.50
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eBayUncirculated: $415.00 – $818.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $200.00 – $3,750.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,265.00 – $9,488.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,000.00 – $12,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1879 Cent
The 1879 Indian Head Cent is part of the iconic Indian Head penny series that was minted from 1859 to 1909. This coin was produced during a period of economic recovery following the Panic of 1873, reflecting the gradual improvement in the nation’s financial situation.
The Indian Head design, created by James Barton Longacre, features Lady Liberty wearing a Native American headdress, symbolizing America’s unique identity and heritage. The reverse depicts an oak wreath surrounding the words ‘ONE CENT,’ embodying strength and national unity.
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 19 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc |
| 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
The condition of an 1879 Indian Head Cent significantly impacts its value and desirability among collectors. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are particularly valuable, with premium prices for those grading MS65 or higher.
Original red color is highly prized in uncirculated examples, with full red (RD) coins commanding the highest premiums. Coins with attractive, even toning are also desirable. For circulated coins, sharp details in the headdress feathers and the wreath on the reverse are important factors in determining value.
Mintage: 16,228,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, popular with collectors of Indian Head cents
Mintage: 3,200
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades PR65 and above with original red color
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved examples
Strike quality is an important consideration for 1879 Indian Head Cents. Well-struck coins with full details in the headdress feathers and the leaves of the wreath are more desirable. The presence of luster in higher-grade circulated coins can also increase their appeal and value.
For proof issues, cameo contrast between frosted devices and mirrored fields can significantly enhance value. Deep cameo proofs are especially rare and sought after for this year.
While not typically considered a key date, the 1879 Indian Head Cent is still an important part of the series and is popular with collectors aiming to complete date runs or type sets of 19th-century U.S. coinage.
