Price Guide for 1896 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: $13.00 – $575.00Uncirculated: $16.00 – $661.00
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eBayCirculated: $5.57 – $425.00Uncirculated: $19.55 – $709.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1.00 – $62.00Uncirculated: $65.00 – $460.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,725.00Uncirculated: $1.75 – $1,527.50
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eBayUncirculated: $159.09 – $1,550.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $175.00 – $1,900.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $69.00 – $25,300.00
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eBayUncirculated: $49.00 – $3,555.55
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $75.00 – $15,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $69.00 – $3,840.00
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eBayUncirculated: $126.36 – $1,599.95
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $150.00 – $1,750.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $39.00 – $3,055.00
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eBayUncirculated: $58.00 – $1,325.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $70.00 – $3,250.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $117.50
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eBayUncirculated: $164.11
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $26.00 – $107.00Uncirculated: $160.00 – $210.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $92.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $160.00 – $360.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $425.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $170.00 – $600.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $276.00 – $6,000.00
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eBayUncirculated: $380.00 – $1,506.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $225.00 – $7,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $805.00 – $9,300.00
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eBayCirculated: $775.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $500.00 – $12,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1896 Cent
The 1896 Indian Head Cent was 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 recovery following the Panic of 1893, one of the worst economic depressions in U.S. history. The Indian Head cent was a popular denomination for everyday transactions and played a significant role in commerce during the late 19th century.
| 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 1896 Indian Head Cent significantly impacts its value. While the coin is relatively common in circulated grades, specimens in uncirculated condition become increasingly valuable. Coins graded MS63 or higher are particularly desirable among collectors.
Key factors affecting the coin’s condition include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with sharp details, especially on the Indian’s headdress and the wreath on the reverse, command higher premiums.
2. Luster: Original mint luster, particularly if it’s full and cartwheel-like, greatly enhances the coin’s appeal and value.
3. Surface preservation: Coins free from noticeable marks, scratches, or other blemishes are more valuable.
4. Color: Original red or red-brown specimens are typically more desirable than brown examples.
Mintage: 39,055,431
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Toning can play a role in the coin’s desirability, with attractive, natural toning often increasing appeal to collectors. However, unattractive or artificial toning can negatively impact value.
Die varieties, while not particularly notable for this year, can add some premium if discovered. Collectors should look for repunched dates or doubled dies, though these are rare for 1896 cents.
The overall eye appeal of the coin, combining all these factors, ultimately plays a crucial role in determining its value in the collector market.
