The US mint resolved to reduce the copper content in the Cent piece to save on the cost of copper used. As a result of the California Gold Rush, the price of copper hit skyrocket levels.
Before the Indian Head, the Cent piece used comprised of only copper. The 1906 Indian Head is one of the last coins struck in the series before its abolishment. It features a profile bust of Liberty on the obverse, a shield, and a set of arrows on the reverse. It is a single-cent penny struck by the US mint for circulation between 1859-1909. Plus, we also help you understand how to grade your coin before you sell it. Read on to learn more about the one-cent Indian Penny, its features, and its design history. Designed by James Longacre, it contains 75% copper and 5% (tin/zinc). It sells for $1 and $30-$57 in certified MS+ grade at a pawn shop. The 1906 Indian Head penny is worth one cent at face value. Are you a coin collector or seasoned numismatist? Collectors have found a rare gem in uncirculated Indian Head cents.