Price Guide for 1898 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 – $1,495.00Uncirculated: $16.00 – $381.88
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eBayCirculated: $4.26 – $235.00Uncirculated: $17.80 – $999.95
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $6.00 – $65.00Uncirculated: $67.00 – $425.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $89.00Uncirculated: $29.00 – $1,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $16.50 – $51.00Uncirculated: $41.00 – $525.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $70.00 – $2,350.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $747.00Uncirculated: $1.85 – $4,025.00
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eBayUncirculated: $175.00 – $1,775.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $160.00 – $6,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $60.00 – $4,600.00
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eBayUncirculated: $103.50 – $2,099.95
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $130.00 – $2,400.00
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eBayCirculated: $4.25Uncirculated: $103.24 – $360.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $36.00 – $26,450.00
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eBayUncirculated: $134.00 – $4,850.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $75.00 – $25,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $798.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $31.00 – $150.00Uncirculated: $180.00 – $285.00
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eBayUncirculated: $525.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $195.00 – $300.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $121.00 – $129.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $18.00 – $198.00
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eBayCirculated: $87.00 – $91.00Uncirculated: $197.39
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $31.00 – $162.00Uncirculated: $165.00 – $350.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $129.25
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eBayUncirculated: $250.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $180.00 – $400.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $705.00 – $1,997.50
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eBayUncirculated: $579.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $285.00 – $2,650.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $288.00 – $15,600.00
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eBayUncirculated: $382.89 – $1,100.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $175.00 – $17,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $805.00 – $36,000.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1,999.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $185.00 – $25,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $8,400.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $200.00 – $11,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1898 Cent
The 1898 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 recovery following the Panic of 1893, reflecting the nation’s gradual return to prosperity. The Indian Head design, created by James Barton Longacre, was widely popular and remained in circulation well into the 20th century.
| 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
Condition plays a crucial role in determining the value of an 1898 Indian Head Cent. While the coin is relatively common in circulated grades, specimens in uncirculated condition become increasingly scarce and valuable. Coins graded MS63 or higher command significant premiums.
Key factors affecting condition 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. Surface preservation: Minimal contact marks or blemishes enhance desirability.
4. Color: Original red or red-brown toning is preferred over fully brown specimens.
Mintage: 49,823,079
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
Rarity in high grades: While the 1898 Cent is common in lower grades, it becomes scarce in grades MS65 and above. Red specimens, retaining their original copper color, are particularly valuable in high grades.
Historical significance: As a late 19th-century coin, it appeals to collectors interested in this era of American history.
Set completion: Many collectors seek this date to complete their Indian Head Cent collections, maintaining steady demand.
Toning: Attractively toned specimens, especially those with rainbow colors, can command premiums among collectors who appreciate eye appeal.
