Price Guide for 1881 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: $7.00 – $79.00Uncirculated: $24.00 – $600.00
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eBayCirculated: $5.50 – $511.11Uncirculated: $28.77 – $775.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $3.00 – $76.00Uncirculated: $80.00 – $650.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $73.00 – $104.00Uncirculated: $115.00 – $5,875.00
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eBayUncirculated: $145.00 – $2,015.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $150.00 – $3,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $51.00 – $1,645.00
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eBayUncirculated: $95.00 – $811.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $150.00 – $1,400.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $127.00 – $37,375.00
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eBayUncirculated: $150.00 – $3,710.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $150.00 – $25,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $265.00Uncirculated: $2.25 – $4,817.50
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eBayUncirculated: $130.00 – $2,400.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $165.00 – $5,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $171.00 – $7,343.75
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eBayUncirculated: $631.00 – $2,830.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $185.00 – $7,850.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $748.00 – $8,225.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $500.00 – $3,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1881 Cent
The 1881 Indian Head Cent is part of the Indian Head Cent series, which was minted from 1859 to 1909. This coin was produced during a period of economic growth and westward expansion in the United States. The Indian Head design, featuring Liberty wearing a Native American headdress, was popular and remained largely unchanged throughout its 50-year run.
| 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 1881 Indian Head Cent significantly impacts its value. While common in circulated grades, examples in uncirculated condition become increasingly valuable. Coins graded MS65 or higher are scarce and command substantial premiums.
Key factors affecting value include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more desirable.
2. Luster: Original mint luster adds to the coin’s appeal and value.
3. Color: Original red or red-brown specimens are typically more valuable than brown examples.
4. Surface preservation: Coins free from noticeable marks or blemishes are more valuable.
Mintage: 39,211,575
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
Toning can significantly impact the value of an 1881 Indian Head Cent. Natural, attractive toning can enhance a coin’s desirability and value among collectors. However, unattractive or artificial toning can decrease value.
Die state can also affect value, with early die state examples often showing sharper details and being more desirable. Additionally, any unusual errors or varieties, while not commonly noted for this year, could potentially increase a coin’s value if discovered.
The historical significance of the Indian Head Cent series and its popularity among collectors contribute to the overall demand for this coin, even in its more common dates like 1881.
