Price Guide for 1884 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 – $1,495.00Uncirculated: $27.00 – $2,115.00
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eBayCirculated: $6.50 – $175.00Uncirculated: $23.55 – $1,599.99
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $5.00 – $90.00Uncirculated: $100.00 – $2,200.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $156.00Uncirculated: $74.00 – $8,625.00
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eBayUncirculated: $160.00 – $3,239.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $160.00 – $3,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $280.00Uncirculated: $64.00 – $3,995.00
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eBayUncirculated: $114.50 – $840.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $100.00 – $5,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $35.00Uncirculated: $161.00 – $8,400.00
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eBayCirculated: $386.00Uncirculated: $207.55 – $2,226.23
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $125.00 – $25,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $168.00
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eBayCirculated: $172.95
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $185.00Uncirculated: $240.00 – $425.00
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eBayUncirculated: $215.18
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $290.00 – $800.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $132.00 – $1,322.00Uncirculated: $1.30 – $9,106.25
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eBayUncirculated: $156.16 – $1,875.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $210.00 – $11,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $230.00 – $8,050.00
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eBayUncirculated: $411.00 – $2,942.50
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $225.00 – $4,150.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,140.00 – $9,488.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $275.00 – $8,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1884 Cent
The 1884 Indian Head Cent was part of the long-running Indian Head cent series, which began in 1859 and continued until 1909. This coin was minted during a period of relative economic stability following the tumultuous years of the Civil War and Reconstruction. James Barton Longacre’s design, featuring Lady Liberty wearing a Native American headdress, had become a familiar sight in American commerce by this time.
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 19.0 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
Condition plays a crucial role in determining the value of an 1884 Indian Head Cent. While the coin is relatively common in circulated grades, examples in uncirculated condition become progressively more valuable. Coins graded MS63 and above command significant premiums.
Key factors affecting condition include:
– Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more desirable.
– Luster: Original mint luster adds to the coin’s appeal and value.
– Surface preservation: Coins free from marks, scratches, and other imperfections are highly sought after.
– Color: Original red or red-brown specimens typically command higher prices than brown examples.
Mintage: 23,257,800
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant for this year
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Several factors can influence the value of an 1884 Indian Head Cent beyond its basic rarity:
1. Toning: Attractive, natural toning can enhance a coin’s desirability and value.
2. Die state: Late die state coins with interesting die cracks or cuds may appeal to specialists.
3. Provenance: Coins with a notable ownership history can command a premium.
4. Certification: Coins graded and encapsulated by reputable third-party grading services often sell for higher prices.
5. Market trends: The overall demand for Indian Head cents can affect values, with increased collector interest potentially driving prices higher.
