Price Guide for 1894 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 – $110.00Uncirculated: $37.00 – $1,725.00
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eBayCirculated: $8.50 – $405.00Uncirculated: $39.88 – $717.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $5.00 – $100.00Uncirculated: $110.00 – $1,250.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $196.00Uncirculated: $66.00 – $2,185.00
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eBayUncirculated: $179.83 – $599.95
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $100.00 – $110.00Uncirculated: $125.00 – $2,600.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $42.00 – $2,990.00
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eBayUncirculated: $92.00 – $795.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $115.00 – $3,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $64.00 – $11,500.00
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eBayUncirculated: $141.50 – $5,462.49
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $115.00 – $37,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $253.00 – $299.00
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eBayUncirculated: $203.50
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $15.00 – $205.00Uncirculated: $225.00 – $400.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,028.13
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $450.00 – $1,025.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $132.00 – $1,050.00Uncirculated: $780.00 – $2,702.50
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eBayCirculated: $42.28 – $658.55
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $48.00 – $575.00Uncirculated: $650.00 – $1,900.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,560.00 – $3,360.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $710.00 – $2,700.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,955.00 – $5,520.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2,500.00 – $6,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $173.00Uncirculated: $1.65 – $2,880.00
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eBayUncirculated: $150.00 – $1,483.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $160.00 – $4,250.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $299.00 – $5,581.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1,125.00 – $1,650.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $350.00 – $2,800.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $357.00 – $18,800.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $175.00 – $20,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1894 Cent
The 1894 Indian Head Cent is part of the long-running Indian Head cent series, which was minted from 1859 to 1909. This coin was produced during a period of economic recession in the United States, known as the Panic of 1893, which led to reduced coin production across all denominations.
The Indian Head cent design, created by James Barton Longacre, had been in circulation for over three decades by 1894, and remained a popular and recognizable coin in everyday commerce.
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 19.05 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 1894 Indian Head Cent significantly impacts its value. Due to its age and circulation, finding high-grade examples can be challenging. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 or higher) are particularly desirable and command substantial premiums.
Key factors affecting value include:
– Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more valuable.
– Luster: Original mint luster adds significantly to the coin’s appeal and value.
– Color: Original red or red-brown specimens are more desirable than fully brown examples.
– Surface preservation: Coins free from noticeable marks, scratches, or other imperfections are highly sought after.
Mintage: 16,749,500
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
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
Additional factors influencing the 1894 Cent’s value include:
1. Historical significance: Being minted during the Panic of 1893 adds interest for collectors of economic history.
2. Relative scarcity: While not a key date, the 1894 has a lower mintage compared to many other years in the series.
3. Toning: Attractive, natural toning can enhance a coin’s appeal and value.
4. Provenance: Coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors can command a premium.
5. Certification: Coins graded and encapsulated by reputable third-party grading services often sell for higher prices due to the assurance of authenticity and grade.
