The value of an 1891 one-cent coin, or Indian Head Penny, varies significantly depending on its condition.
- Circulated Condition:
– Good: An 1891 Indian Head Penny in “Good” condition (heavily circulated, showing significant wear, but still identifiable) is generally valued around $3.
– Fine: Coins in “Fine” condition (circulated with some scratching, but images are still visible) are typically valued at about $5.
– Extremely Fine: An “Extremely Fine” (minimally circulated with slight wear only visible under close inspection) coin can fetch around $15.
- Uncirculated Condition:
– Uncirculated (MS): Uncirculated coins, those that were never released into circulation and are in pristine condition, can range from $30 to as high as $6,833.39 depending on the specific grade (e.g., MS62, MS64, MS66) and color designation (Brown, Red-Brown, Red). Some particularly well-preserved examples can even reach up to $7,500.
– About Uncirculated (AU): Coins in “About Uncirculated” condition, with only minor traces of wear on the highest points and nearly full mint luster, typically have a value of around $29.
Key Factors Determining Value
Several factors, in addition to condition, influence the value of your 1891 Indian Head Penny:
- Mintage: While a relatively large number of 1891 Indian Head Pennies were minted, fewer coins in higher grades exist today.
- Mint Mark: No mint mark is present on the 1891 Indian Head Penny, meaning they were all minted in Philadelphia.
- Varieties and Errors: The presence of specific varieties, such as a doubled die obverse (DDO), can significantly increase a coin’s value. The 1891 doubled die obverse, FS-101 (Snow-1), is particularly noteworthy.
- Color Designation: For uncirculated Indian Head Pennies, the amount of original red color present impacts the value, with “Red” coins being the most desirable and valuable, followed by “Red-Brown” and then “Brown”.
- Demand: Collector demand for Indian Head Pennies can fluctuate, affecting the market value.
To accurately determine the value of your 1891 one-cent coin, you should:
- Examine the condition carefully. Compare your coin to online descriptions and images of different grades (Good, Fine, Extremely Fine, Uncirculated, etc.).
- Look for varieties or errors. Use a magnifying glass to check for features like a doubled die obverse or repunched date.
- Consult a reputable price guide or online resource. JM Bullion’s Indian Head Penny Value page and [PriceCharting’s 1891 Indian Head Penny Prices page] provide valuable information on recent sales and graded coin values.
- Consider professional grading. If you believe your coin is in exceptional condition or may possess a valuable variety, consider sending it to a professional grading service like NGC or PCGS for evaluation and encapsulation. This will provide an objective assessment of its condition and authenticity, potentially increasing its market value.
How much is a 1891 one penny coin worth?
Great question! Mintage for the Penny design struck dated 1891 is recorded as 17,885,961 coins. A mid grade condition 1891 Bronze Penny is worth about £35.00. (value mid point between VF and EF). View all English coins struck dated 1891.
Which American 1 cent coins are valuable?
1943-D Lincoln Bronze Wheat Penny — $2.3 million. …
1944-S Steel Wheat Penny — $1.1 million. …
1793 Strawberry Leaf Cent — $862,500. …
1943-S Lincoln Cent Struck on Bronze — $282,000. …
1909 VDB Matte Proof Lincoln Penny — $258,000. …
1958 Doubled Die Obverse Cent — $224,831. …
1856 Flying Eagle Cent — $172,500.