Introduction & Value Overview
A remarkable 1879 Indian Head Penny in pristine MS67 condition commanded an impressive $28,200 at a Heritage Auction in 2021, demonstrating the extraordinary premium commanded by exceptional examples of this classic American coin. While most circulated specimens trade for $15-35, uncirculated examples can range from $150 to several thousand dollars depending on condition, mint mark, and the presence of valuable errors or varieties.
Designed by James B. Longacre and struck from 1859 to 1909, the Indian Head Penny represents a crucial transitional period in American coinage. The 1879 issue specifically holds particular importance for collectors due to its relatively modest mintage figures and several notable varieties. Struck in a bronze composition of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, these pennies have developed a distinctive patina that serious collectors prize.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll examine the full spectrum of 1879 Indian Head Penny values across grades and varieties, identify the key mint marks and their substantial impact on worth, explore the most valuable error types, and provide expert guidance on authentication and strategic collecting approaches.
Technical Specifications & Key Identifiers
Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Denomination | One Cent |
| Designer | James Barton Longacre |
| Composition | 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc |
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
| Diameter | 19 mm |
| Edge | Plain |
| Mintmark Location | Reverse, below wreath |
| Obverse | Liberty wearing Native American headdress |
| Reverse | Oak wreath with shield, ONE CENT in center |
Authentication Markers
The 1879 Indian Head Penny features several diagnostic elements that help confirm authenticity. The feathers in Liberty’s headdress should show distinct separation, particularly at the tips. The lettering on genuine examples exhibits precise serifs with no unusual thickening or thinning. Under magnification, the diamond shapes beneath the date should appear uniform and well-defined.
Design Elements
The obverse depicts Liberty wearing a Native American headdress with “LIBERTY” visible on the headband. The reverse features an oak wreath with a shield at top and “ONE CENT” in the center. The date on the obverse and the denomination on the reverse are key focal points for grading, as these areas tend to show wear first and significantly impact value assessment.
Designer Information
James Barton Longacre served as Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint from 1844 until his death in 1869. While he didn’t live to see the 1879 issue, his Indian Head design had become firmly established in American coinage by this time. Longacre’s original bronze composition, adopted in 1864, continued with the 1879 specimens. His distinctive portrait of Liberty wearing a Native American headdress remains one of the most recognizable designs in American numismatics and contributes significantly to the coin’s enduring collector appeal.
Mint Mark Guide & Value Comparison
Mint Mark Locations
The 1879 Indian Head Penny was produced at two mints:
- Philadelphia (no mint mark): The vast majority of 1879 pennies were struck at the Philadelphia mint and bear no mint mark
- San Francisco (S): The mint mark appears on the reverse side, centered below the wreath and above the edge
Mint Mark Value Table
| Grade | 1879 (No Mint Mark) | 1879-S |
|---|---|---|
| Good-4 | $14-18 | $42-55 |
| Very Good-8 | $22-28 | $68-85 |
| Fine-12 | $30-38 | $105-130 |
| Very Fine-20 | $45-55 | $145-180 |
| XF-40 | $85-105 | $240-300 |
| AU-50 | $125-150 | $450-550 |
| MS-60 | $175-210 | $600-725 |
| MS-63 | $300-375 | $1,100-1,350 |
| MS-65 | $1,300-1,600 | $4,500-5,500 |
| MS-67+ | $15,000+ | $26,000+ |
Mint Mark Identification Tips
The S mint mark on 1879 pennies can be challenging to distinguish, especially on well-worn examples. The mint mark was hand-punched, resulting in variations in position, size, and depth. Authentic S mint marks from this period typically have rounded serifs and balanced proportions. Under magnification, look for a slight depression around the mint mark, indicating it was properly punched into the die.
Mintage Figures
| Mint | Mintage | Surviving Population Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 16,231,200 | ~325,000 |
| San Francisco | 2,230,000 | ~12,000 |
The substantially lower mintage at San Francisco coupled with generally lower survival rates of S-mint coins (as they saw heavier circulation in the developing West) explains their significantly higher values across all grades.
Most Valuable Mint Mark
The San Francisco (S) mint mark dramatically increases the value of an 1879 Indian Head Penny. In comparable grades, an 1879-S is typically worth 3-4 times more than its Philadelphia counterpart. This value disparity reflects both the lower original mintage and the estimated survival rate, with fewer than 6% of the original S-mint production surviving in collectible condition today compared to approximately 2% of the Philadelphia mintage.
Current Market Values By Grade
Comprehensive Value Table
| Grade | Details | 1879 (P) | 1879-S |
|---|---|---|---|
| AG-3 | Nearly full rim, date visible | $8-12 | $36-45 |
| G-4 | Full rim, clear LIBERTY | $14-18 | $42-55 |
| VG-8 | 3-4 letters visible in LIBERTY | $22-28 | $68-85 |
| F-12 | Complete LIBERTY, some feather detail | $30-38 | $105-130 |
| VF-20 | Sharp LIBERTY, distinct feather detail | $45-55 | $145-180 |
| VF-30 | Strong details throughout | $65-80 | $190-240 |
| XF-40 | Light wear on high points | $85-105 | $240-300 |
| XF-45 | Slight wear, good luster | $105-130 | $330-410 |
| AU-50 | Minimal wear, some mint luster | $125-150 | $450-550 |
| AU-55 | Slight friction, strong luster | $150-175 | $525-650 |
| MS-60 | Uncirculated with imperfections | $175-210 | $600-725 |
| MS-62 | Better appearance, some contact marks | $225-275 | $800-1,000 |
| MS-63 | Sharp strike, noticeable marks | $300-375 | $1,100-1,350 |
| MS-64 | Well struck, minimal marks | $600-750 | $2,200-2,700 |
| MS-65 | Exceptional luster, minor imperfections | $1,300-1,600 | $4,500-5,500 |
| MS-66 | Outstanding eye appeal | $5,000-6,500 | $12,000-15,000 |
| MS-67 | Nearly perfect | $15,000-20,000 | $26,000-32,000 |
| Proof-65 | Special strike, red-brown | $3,400-4,200 | N/A (No proofs) |
| Proof-67 | Special strike, exceptional | $9,000-12,000 | N/A (No proofs) |
Price Trend Analysis
Over the past five years, gem-quality 1879 Indian Head Pennies (MS-65 and above) have appreciated approximately 15-20%, outperforming many other 19th-century copper issues. This trend reflects growing collector interest in highest-grade examples as the fixed supply continues to dwindle. The most dramatic price increases have occurred in MS-66 and higher grades, where auction results have occasionally exceeded published price guide values by 20-30%.
Condition Impact
The jump in value between grades becomes exponentially greater at the upper end of the condition spectrum. For example, an 1879 (P) in MS-63 ($300-375) increases by approximately 100% to MS-64 ($600-750), and then by another 113% to MS-65 ($1,300-1,600). The most dramatic value increase occurs between MS-65 and MS-66, where values nearly quadruple due to the extreme scarcity of true gem examples.
Key Date Values
While 1879 is not among the rarest dates in the Indian Head series (with that distinction belonging to 1877, 1909-S, and 1872), the 1879-S represents an important semi-key date, particularly in mint state grades. High-grade examples of both the 1879 and 1879-S have shown strong value appreciation in recent years as registry set collecting has increased demand for premium examples.
Auction Records
Notable recent auction results for 1879 Indian Head Pennies include:
- 1879 MS-67 RD (PCGS): $28,200 (Heritage Auctions, January 2021)
- 1879-S MS-66 RB (NGC): $16,800 (Stack’s Bowers, August 2023)
- 1879 PR-67 RD CAMEO (PCGS): $38,400 (Heritage Auctions, April 2022)
- 1879-S MS-65 RD (PCGS): $9,600 (Heritage Auctions, March 2024)
Major Error Types & Their Values
Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
The 1879 DDO shows doubling most prominently in the date and LIBERTY inscription. This doubling resulted from multiple impressions from the hub during die preparation, creating a distinct separation visible under magnification. While not as dramatic as some later doubled dies in the series, authentic examples command significant premiums:
- VF-20: $250-350
- XF-40: $500-650
- AU-55: $900-1,200
- MS-63: $2,500-3,200
Authentication requires careful examination of doubling patterns, particularly in the letters of LIBERTY and the date digits, which should show consistent doubling angles throughout.
Repunched Dates (RPD)
Several minor repunched date varieties exist for 1879 pennies, with the most notable showing clear repunching on the 18 or 79 in the date. These errors occurred when the date was punched into the working die multiple times, with slight misalignment between punches.
Values for significant repunched dates:
- F-12: $75-120
- VF-30: $150-225
- XF-45: $275-350
- MS-63: $750-950
The most valuable RPD shows strong northward repunching on all four digits, with current market values approximately 3-4 times the figures listed above.
Clipped Planchet
Clipped planchet errors occur when the coin blank is partially cut from the end or side of the metal strip, resulting in an incomplete coin. Depending on the size and position of the clip, 1879 Indian Head Pennies with this error typically sell for:
- Straight clip (10-15% missing): $150-250
- Curved clip (15-20% missing): $200-350
- Multiple clips: $400-600+
Authentication focuses on the characteristic “Blakesley Effect” (thinning of design elements opposite the clip) and proper weight reduction proportional to the missing portion.
Off-Center Strikes
Off-center strikes occur when the planchet is not properly centered between the dies during striking. Values vary dramatically based on the percentage off-center and whether the date and mint mark remain visible:
- 5-10% off-center: $150-250
- 15-20% off-center (date visible): $400-600
- 30-40% off-center (date visible): $900-1,500
- 50%+ off-center (date visible): $1,800-2,500+
The most desirable examples show significant off-centering while retaining the full date and mint mark.
Most Valuable Errors
The three most valuable error types for 1879 Indian Head Pennies are:
- Major Doubled Die Obverse: In MS-63 condition, these can reach $2,500-3,200, with premium red examples potentially commanding 50-80% more.
- 50%+ Off-Center Strike with Full Date: These dramatic errors can sell for $1,800-2,500+, with exceptional examples occasionally exceeding $3,000.
- Triple-Struck 1879 Penny: Exceedingly rare multi-strike errors where the coin received three distinct impressions can fetch $5,000-7,500, depending on the clarity of multiple strikes and overall condition.
Die Varieties & Doubled Dies
Snow-1: 1879/9 Repunched Date
Official Designation: FS-301 Diagnostic Features: Clear repunching visible south of the primary 9 in the date Current Market Values:
- VF-20: $125-175
- XF-40: $225-300
- AU-50: $400-500
- MS-63: $800-1,000
- MS-65: $3,000-3,800
This variety shows most clearly under 5x-10x magnification, with the secondary 9 visible below the main digit. Authentication requires careful examination of the specific repunching pattern, as there are several minor repunched date varieties for 1879.
Snow-2: Doubled LIBERTY
Official Designation: FS-101 Diagnostic Features: Doubling visible on the letters of LIBERTY, particularly the L, B, and Y Current Market Values:
- VF-20: $150-200
- XF-40: $275-350
- AU-50: $450-575
- MS-63: $900-1,150
- MS-65: $3,500-4,500
This variety shows distinct doubling on the headband inscription. For authentication, note that the doubling appears consistent across multiple letters and follows the expected hubbing doubling pattern rather than machine doubling.
1879/8 Snow-3 Overdate
Official Designation: FS-301 Diagnostic Features: Remnants of an 8 underneath the 9 in the date Current Market Values:
- VF-20: $350-450
- XF-40: $650-850
- AU-50: $1,200-1,600
- MS-63: $3,800-4,500
- MS-65: $12,000-15,000
This rare overdate variety shows portions of an underlying 8 beneath the 9. Authentication requires careful examination of the specific shape of the remnant digit portions and comparison with confirmed examples, as this variety is sometimes confused with repunched date varieties.
Rarity Ranking
From most common to rarest:
- Minor Repunched Dates (several varieties)
- Snow-1: 1879/9 Repunched Date
- Snow-2: Doubled LIBERTY
- Snow-3: 1879/8 Overdate
Most Valuable Varieties
- Snow-3: 1879/8 Overdate: The clear king of 1879 varieties, with MS-65 examples potentially reaching $12,000-15,000.
- Snow-2: Doubled LIBERTY: In gem condition (MS-65+), these can command $3,500-4,500, with perfect red examples potentially fetching even more.
- Snow-1: 1879/9 Repunched Date: While less dramatic than the other two major varieties, gem examples can still bring $3,000-3,800 in MS-65 condition.
Grading Guide For Value Assessment
Grade-Specific Value Impacts
When grading 1879 Indian Head Pennies, several areas have outsized impact on value determination:
Circulated Grades (G-4 through AU-58):
- Headband: Visibility of “LIBERTY” inscription adds significant premium
- Hair and feather details: Preservation of fine lines in the hair and headdress feathers
- Wreath details: Definition of leaf veins and berries on reverse
Uncirculated Grades (MS-60 through MS-67):
- Strike strength: Fully struck examples with sharp central diamonds command 20-30% premiums
- Color designation: RD (red) examples typically worth 2-3 times RB (red-brown) counterparts
- Field preservation: Abrasion-free fields significantly impact grade and value
Key Grading Points
Obverse Focal Points:
- Examine “LIBERTY” for wear that reduces letter definition
- Check feather tips for flattening
- Assess hair detail preservation, particularly behind ear
- Note any flattening on high points of portrait
Reverse Focal Points:
- Examine ribbon ties for wear
- Check shield details for definition
- Assess wreath leaf vein preservation
- Note definition of ONE CENT
Strike Quality Factors
Strike quality varies considerably on 1879 pennies, with Philadelphia issues typically showing stronger strikes than San Francisco examples. Weakness commonly appears on the diamonds below the date and on the leaves at 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock positions on the wreath. Full strike examples can command 15-25% premiums over typical strikes in mint state grades.
Problem Areas
Common problems that can severely impact 1879 Indian Head Penny values include:
- Environmental damage: Green spots or pitting from improper storage
- Cleaning evidence: Hairlines from past cleaning reduce value by 50% or more
- Carbon spots: Black spots that developed over time, particularly detrimental on RD examples
- Edge bumps: Common on copper coins, can reduce value by 20-40%
- Rim cuts: Often from improper removal from albums or holders
Grading Controversies
Professional grading services sometimes differ in their assessment of 1879 Indian Head Pennies, particularly regarding:
- Color designation thresholds between RB and RD
- Strike quality assessment when certain areas show weakness
- Treatment of minor carbon spotting on otherwise red examples
- Evaluation of original toning versus artificial enhancement
Authentication & Counterfeit Detection
Counterfeit Warning Signs
Modern counterfeits of 1879 Indian Head Pennies typically show these warning signs:
- Weight discrepancies (genuine should weigh 3.11 grams ±0.10 grams)
- Mushy or imprecise detail, particularly in feather tips and lettering
- Incorrect font style or size, especially in date digits
- Seams from casting or evidence of join lines
- Incorrect metal composition (modern counterfeits often use pure copper)
Weight and Measurement Tests
Authentic 1879 Indian Head Pennies must meet these specifications:
- Weight: 3.11 grams ±0.10 grams
- Diameter: 19.0mm ±0.1mm
- Thickness: 1.5mm ±0.1mm
- Edge: Plain with slight rounding
Precision digital calipers and an accurate scale capable of measuring to 0.01 grams are essential for proper verification.
Design Element Inspection
When authenticating, pay particular attention to:
- Date formation: The 1879 date has specific digit shapes and positioning
- Feather details: Should show precise engraving with natural flow
- Lettering: Proper serif style and consistent depth
- Oak wreath: Distinct leaf veining pattern specific to 1879
- Die markers: Familiar die scratches or defects known to genuine examples
Modern Counterfeits
Recent sophisticated counterfeits have employed transfer dies created from genuine coins, making detection more challenging. These typically show:
- Slightly transferred or doubled outlines on design elements
- Microscopic pitting throughout the surfaces
- Incorrect luster characteristics (often too dull or artificially bright)
- Improper edge formation
Authentication Resources
Professional authentication is recommended for any 1879 Indian Head Penny valued over $500, especially 1879-S examples and those with purported rare varieties. Reliable resources include:
- Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS)
- Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC)
- ANACS (American Numismatic Association Certification Service)
- American Numismatic Association authentication resources
- John D. Wright’s “The Cent Book: 1816-1839” for die variety verification
Collector Strategy & Value Acquisition
Value-Based Collecting Approaches
Budget Approach ($200-500):
- Focus on acquiring VF to XF examples of the 1879 Philadelphia issue
- Seek attractive, problem-free coins with natural surfaces
- Consider AU examples with minor issues that offer good value
Intermediate Approach ($1,000-5,000):
- Target AU to lower mint state Philadelphia examples and VF-XF San Francisco issues
- Consider one major variety in mid-grade (VF-XF)
- Seek coins with CAC verification for maximum value retention
Advanced Approach ($5,000+):
- Focus on MS-64 and better examples with strong eye appeal
- Target 1879-S in MS-63 or better condition
- Pursue major varieties in AU or better grades
- Consider proof examples in PR-63 or better
Where To Buy
For maximum value and authenticity assurance, acquire 1879 Indian Head Pennies from:
- Major auction houses (Heritage, Stack’s Bowers, Legend)
- Established dealers with ANA membership and guarantees
- Major coin shows with multiple dealer options
- Online exchanges with strong buyer protections
Avoid ungraded examples from general online marketplaces unless purchasing from established dealers with return policies.
When To Sell
Optimal market timing for 1879 Indian Head Penny sales:
- January-March: Strong auction season typically yields best results for high-grade examples
- Summer months: Often see reduced collector activity and potentially lower prices
- Market peaks: Consider selling when copper index metrics show substantial increases
- Personal collection optimization: Replace with better examples when opportunity arises
Storage For Value Preservation
To maintain maximum value:
- Store in inert, PVC-free holders (PCGS, NGC, or quality aftermarket)
- Maintain consistent humidity below 50%
- Avoid temperature fluctuations that can lead to condensation
- Never clean, dip, or otherwise treat surfaces
- Consider long-term storage in bank vaults for significant holdings
Expert FAQ & Value Conclusion
Key Value Questions
What makes a 1879 Indian Head Penny valuable?
The most valuable 1879 Indian Head Pennies combine high grade, strong strike, original red or red-brown color, and eye appeal. The San Francisco mint mark dramatically increases value, as do major varieties like the 1879/8 Snow-3 Overdate and significant errors like major doubled dies. Pristine MS-65+ examples with full red surfaces and no spots command the highest premiums, often selling for multiples of published guide values at auction.
Which 1879 Indian Head Penny errors are worth the most?
The most valuable errors include major doubled dies showing clear separation ($2,500+ in MS-63), dramatic off-center strikes with full date visible ($1,800-2,500+), and extremely rare triple-struck errors ($5,000-7,500). Authentication is critical, as many purported errors are actually post-mint damage or minor die varieties that command much smaller premiums.
How do mint marks affect 1879 Indian Head Penny values?
The San Francisco (S) mint mark increases value by 3-4 times across all grades compared to Philadelphia examples. This premium reflects both the substantially lower original mintage (2.23 million vs. 16.23 million) and the dramatically lower survival rate of S-mint coins, particularly in higher grades. Even in well-worn condition, an 1879-S is worth significantly more than its Philadelphia counterpart.
Value Summary
The 1879 Indian Head Penny represents an accessible yet valuable addition to any serious collection. With circulated Philadelphia examples available from $15-100, moderately priced AU examples around $125-175, and gem uncirculated pieces ranging from $1,300 to $20,000+, this issue offers collecting opportunities at nearly every budget level.
The San Francisco variant remains a semi-key date that commands substantial premiums, while major varieties like the 1879/8 overdate continue to generate strong collector interest. For investment-focused collectors, the highest-grade red examples with CAC approval and major varieties in mint state have shown the strongest long-term appreciation.
Market Outlook
The market for premium 1879 Indian Head Pennies appears poised for continued strength, particularly for:
- Gem uncirculated examples with full red color (MS-65+ RD)
- Major varieties in grades XF-45 and better
- San Francisco issues in all uncirculated grades
- Error coins with dramatic visual appeal
While more common circulated examples may see modest value increases tracking with inflation, the scarcest examples in the highest grades should continue to appreciate at above-average rates as registry set collecting drives competition for finest-known examples.
Final Collector Advice
When acquiring 1879 Indian Head Pennies, prioritize original surfaces and natural color over absolute grade. A properly graded VF example with attractive patina often represents better long-term value than a questionable AU or cleaned MS example. For significant purchases, professional certification remains essential, with PCGS and NGC holders providing maximum marketability and value security.
Consider assembling a matched set of Philadelphia and San Francisco issues in the best grade your budget allows, potentially adding one significant variety as the centerpiece of your 1879 collection strategy. This balanced approach maximizes both collecting enjoyment and long-term value appreciation potential.