The Indian Head Cent was struck in two different compositions during the course of the series. From 1859 to mid-1864, the coins were struck in a composition consisting of 88% copper and 12% nickel, weighing 4.67 grams, or 72 grains. After this point the composition was changed to a bronze alloy consisting of 95% copper and 5% zinc and tin, weighing 3.11 grams, or 48 grains. Both compositions have a diameter of 19 mm, and all have a plain edge.
For the majority of the series, the coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint without a mint mark. For the final two years of the series, production also took place at the San Francisco Mint. These coins will have the āSā mint mark placed on the reverse, beneath the base of the wreath.
Copper Indian Head Cent
Dates: 1859-1864
Mint Mark: none
Composition: 88% copper, 12% nickel
Weight: 4.67 grams
Diameter: 19 mm
Edge: plain
Designer: James B. Longacre
Bronze Indian Head Cent
Dates: 1864-1909
Mint Mark: none (Philadelphia), S (San Francisco)
Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
Weight: 3.11 grams
Diameter: 19 mm
Edge: plain
Designer: James B. Longacre
