1886 Indian Head Cent Value Guide (Type 1 & Type 2)
1886 Indian Head Cent values range from $8 to $48,300. Type 1 common in circulated grades; Type 2 scarce in mint state. Complete price guide with grading tips.
The 1886 Indian Head Cent is worth $8 to $48,300 depending on type, condition, and color.
- Type 1 Circulated: $8 – $125
- Type 2 Circulated: $10 – $300
- Type 1 Uncirculated: $275 – $15,000
- Type 2 Uncirculated: $350 – $48,300
- Proof specimens: $275 – $6,500
Two distinct varieties exist: Type 1 (feather between I-C) is common; Type 2 (feather between C-A) is scarce in high grades.
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Understanding the 1886 Indian Head Cent
The 1886 Indian Head Cent: two distinct varieties from a single year
The 1886 Indian Head Cent holds a unique position in American numismatics: a single year that produced two distinct and highly collectible major varieties. All 17,650,000 business strike cents and 4,290 proof cents were produced at the Philadelphia Mint, bearing no mint mark. What makes this date special is a mid-year design modification by U.S. Mint Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber, creating the Type 1 and Type 2 varieties.
While the earlier Type 1 is readily available in circulated grades, the later Type 2 is significantly scarcer, particularly in uncirculated condition. This scarcity has driven values of top-tier Type 2 examples to $48,300 at auction. The Type 1, while more common, still commands strong prices in gem condition, with auction records reaching $34,075.
This guide covers everything you need to know about identifying, valuing, grading, and preserving both varieties of the 1886 Indian Head Cent.
How to Identify Your 1886 Indian Head Cent
Accurate identification requires examining three key attributes: mint of origin, design variety, and strike type. Understanding these distinctions is essential for proper valuation.
Type 1: feather points between 'I' and 'C'. Type 2: feather points between 'C' and 'A'
Mint Mark Location
All Indian Head Cents dated 1886 were produced at the Philadelphia Mint. As was standard practice for Philadelphia during this era, these coins do not carry a mint mark. The absence of a mint mark confirms Philadelphia origin.
Philadelphia Mint coins of this era carry no mint mark
Type 1 vs. Type 2 Variety
The critical diagnostic for determining rarity and value is the positioning of the lowest, most prominent feather in Liberty's headdress relative to the word "AMERICA" on the obverse.
Type 1 ("Type of 1885"): The tip of the lowest feather points directly between the letters 'I' and 'C' of AMERICA. This design features slightly higher relief and was used for the majority of production early in the year. Approximately 14,000,000 pieces were struck with this design, representing roughly 79% of the total mintage.
Type 2 ("Type of 1887"): The tip of the lowest feather points directly between the letters 'C' and 'A' of AMERICA. This modified design, introduced mid-year, features lower overall relief—a change intended to improve striking characteristics and die life. Only about 3,650,000 pieces were struck with this design, making it significantly scarcer, especially in uncirculated condition.
Business Strike vs. Proof
Business Strikes were intended for circulation. Uncirculated examples display satin-like or frosty mint luster with a "cartwheel" effect when rotated under light. The fields are not mirrored, and strike sharpness varies depending on die condition.
Proof Strikes were made for collectors using specially polished dies and planchets. They feature sharp, squared-off rims and deeply mirrored fields. Pristine examples may display cameo contrast, with frosted design elements against liquid-like mirrored backgrounds. The U.S. Mint produced 4,290 proofs in 1886, with the majority being Type 1 (approximately 2,500 pieces) since proofs were typically struck early in the year before the design change.
1886 Indian Head Cent Value Guide
The market for 1886 Indian Head Cents is effectively split. Circulated examples are valued primarily by date and condition, with minimal variety premium. Uncirculated examples command dramatically different prices based on variety (Type 1 vs. Type 2) and color designation (Brown, Red-Brown, or Red). This creates distinct markets for general collectors and advanced specialists.
Type 2 commands significant premiums in high grades
1886 Type 1 Business Strike Values
The Type 1 is the more common variety, with PCGS estimating a total survival of 4,000 to 4,600 examples across all grades. In circulated grades, it is readily available. In uncirculated condition, value is highly sensitive to color designation, with full Red (RD) examples commanding substantial premiums. The auction record stands at $34,075, realized in 2016 for a PCGS MS66+RD specimen.
| Grade | Brown (BN) | Red-Brown (RB) | Red (RD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $8 – $12 | N/A | N/A |
| VF-20 | $25 – $30 | N/A | N/A |
| EF-40 | $60 – $70 | N/A | N/A |
| AU-50 | $100 – $125 | N/A | N/A |
| MS-60 | $275 – $300 | $300 – $350 | $325 – $375 |
| MS-62 | $300 – $325 | $350 – $400 | $450 – $500 |
| MS-63 | $375 – $415 | $450 – $500 | $650 – $750 |
| MS-64 | $450 – $500 | $700 – $800 | $1,500 – $1,750 |
| MS-65 | $775 – $900 | $1,500 – $1,800 | $4,000 – $4,500 |
| MS-66 | $2,000 – $2,250 | $3,500 – $4,000 | $12,000 – $15,000 |
| MS-67 | ≥$30,000 | ||
Values compiled from PCGS and NGC Price Guides as of late 2025. Circulated coins do not receive color designations.
1886 Type 2 Business Strike Values
The Type 2 is significantly scarcer, with PCGS estimating around 3,450 surviving examples. While its value in lower circulated grades is only slightly higher than Type 1, the premium becomes substantial in Extremely Fine and About Uncirculated grades and explodes in Mint State. The difficulty of locating this variety in high grades, particularly with original red color, makes it a key condition rarity. The auction record stands at $48,300(PCGS), set in 2000 for a PCGS MS66RD example.
| Grade | Brown (BN) | Red-Brown (RB) | Red (RD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $10 – $15 | N/A | N/A |
| VF-20 | $35 – $50 | N/A | N/A |
| EF-40 | $150 – $175 | N/A | N/A |
| AU-50 | $250 – $300 | N/A | N/A |
| MS-60 | $350 – $400 | $400 – $450 | $500 – $550 |
| MS-62 | $400 – $450 | $600 – $700 | $950 – $1,100 |
| MS-63 | $450 – $500 | $1,000 – $1,200 | $2,350 – $2,750 |
| MS-64 | $650 – $750 | $1,500 – $1,800 | $5,000 – $6,000 |
| MS-65 | $1,500 – $1,800 | $4,000 – $5,000 | $11,000 – $12,500 |
| MS-66 | $4,000 – $5,000 | $10,000 – $12,000 | ≥$35,000 |
Values compiled from PCGS and NGC Price Guides as of late 2025. Circulated coins do not receive color designations.
1886 Type 1 Proof Values
Approximately 2,500 of the 4,290 proofs minted were Type 1, making it the more common proof variety. These coins feature sharp strikes and mirrored fields, though examples with Cameo (CAM) or Deep Cameo (DCAM) contrast are exceptionally rare for this date and command substantial premiums when found.
| Grade | Brown (BN) | Red-Brown (RB) | Red (RD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PF-62 | $275 – $325 | $350 – $400 | $450 – $500 |
| PF-63 | $300 – $350 | $400 – $475 | $575 – $650 |
| PF-64 | $400 – $475 | $550 – $625 | $800 – $950 |
| PF-65 | $550 – $650 | $1,000 – $1,200 | $1,750 – $2,250 |
| PF-66 | $1,250 – $1,500 | $1,800 – $2,200 | $3,000 – $3,500 |
| PF-67 | $2,250 – $2,750 | $3,500 – $4,500 | ≥$5,000 |
Values compiled from PCGS and NGC Price Guides (NGC) as of late 2025. Cameo-designated coins carry significant premiums.
1886 Type 2 Proof Values
The Type 2 Proof is a significant rarity, with only about 1,750 examples struck after the mid-year design change. These are considerably scarcer than Type 1 proofs in all grades. Fully red examples are precious few, and any specimen with cameo contrast is a major prize for advanced specialists.
| Grade | Brown (BN) | Red-Brown (RB) | Red (RD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PF-62 | $325 – $375 | $450 – $550 | Rare |
| PF-63 | $375 – $450 | $600 – $750 | Rare |
| PF-64 | $625 – $750 | $900 – $1,100 | Rare |
| PF-65 | $1,000 – $1,250 | $1,600 – $2,000 | Rare |
| PF-66 | $1,950 – $2,500 | $3,000 – $4,000 | Rare |
| PF-67 | $5,000 – $6,500 | Rare | Rare |
Values compiled from PCGS and NGC Price Guides (NGC) as of late 2025. Red examples are exceedingly rare and valued case-by-case.
Grading Your 1886 Indian Head Cent
Accurately assessing the grade of an 1886 Indian Head Cent requires evaluating wear, strike quality, and original color preservation. Understanding these factors is essential for proper valuation.
Key wear points: Liberty's cheek, feathers, and LIBERTY headband
Key Wear Points
On circulated coins, wear first appears on the highest points of the design. On the obverse, examine Liberty's cheek, the tips of the headdress feathers, and the letters in the LIBERTY headband. On the reverse, check the bow and knot of the wreath. These areas will show flattening and loss of detail as the coin circulates.
Good (G-4): Heavy wear throughout. The date is barely visible, and Liberty's portrait is nearly flat. The headband may be partially worn away, with LIBERTY barely legible. Reverse details are similarly worn, with the wreath showing minimal definition.
Very Fine (VF-20): Moderate wear on high points. All major design elements are visible with moderate detail. The LIBERTY headband is fully readable, though letters may show slight weakness. On the reverse, the bow tie shows definition, and wheat lines are visible though not fully separated.
Extremely Fine (EF-40): Light wear on the highest points only. Most design detail is present. Liberty's cheek shows slight flattening, and the headdress feathers retain most of their definition. The reverse shows sharp detail in the wreath and bow.
About Uncirculated (AU-50): Only a trace of wear on the absolute highest points. Original luster is present in protected areas. Liberty's cheek may show the slightest friction, but full detail remains. The coin retains much of its original mint character.
Mint State Grades
Uncirculated coins show no wear from circulation. Grading at this level focuses on contact marks, luster quality, strike sharpness, and eye appeal.
MS-60 to MS-62: Full mint luster but with numerous contact marks and possible scuffs. The coin appears uncirculated under magnification but may have a less appealing overall look due to bagmarks from storage and handling at the mint.
MS-63 to MS-64: Fewer and smaller contact marks. Luster is strong and appealing. The strike may show some minor weakness in isolated areas, but overall eye appeal is good to very good.
MS-65 to MS-66: Minimal contact marks, visible only under magnification. Excellent luster and strong strike. Outstanding eye appeal with attractive surfaces. These are premium examples that command substantial prices.
MS-67 and Higher: Virtually perfect coins with exceptional luster, virtually mark-free surfaces, and outstanding eye appeal. Extremely rare and highly sought after by advanced collectors and registry set builders.
Color preservation dramatically affects value on copper coins
Color Designations for Copper Coins
For uncirculated Indian Head Cents, the amount of original red luster remaining is critical to value. Grading services use three designations:
BN (Brown): Less than 10% original red color remains. The coin has developed a chocolate-brown patina. This is the most common state for older copper coins and represents the base value for a given grade.
RB (Red-Brown): Between 10% and 90% of the original red color remains, mixed with brown patina. These coins command a moderate premium over Brown examples, typically 1.5 to 3 times the BN value.
RD (Red): At least 90% of the original vibrant, orange-red mint luster is present. These coins are highly desirable and can command 3 to 10 times the value of a Brown coin in the same grade. Original red coins are particularly scarce for 19th-century issues.
Strike Quality vs. Wear
It is important to differentiate between weak strike and circulation wear. Some 1886 Indian Head Cents, particularly from the earlier Type 1 production, can be weakly struck in areas like the diamonds on the headband or certain feather details. This is a manufacturing characteristic, not wear. A weakly struck coin will show soft details but no evidence of friction or flattening from circulation. Understanding this distinction prevents undergrading of genuine uncirculated examples.
Proof strikes feature mirrored fields and sharper details
Proof vs. Business Strike Characteristics
Proof coins are struck multiple times at high pressure using specially prepared dies and planchets. This results in sharp, squared-off rims and deeply mirrored fields. On Cameo (CAM) examples, the raised design elements have a frosted texture that contrasts dramatically with the mirrored background. Deep Cameo (DCAM) examples show even stronger contrast and are exceptionally rare for 1886. Business strikes, even in gem condition, have a different character—satin or frosty luster with rounded edges and non-mirrored fields.
Die Varieties and Repunched Dates
Beyond the major Type 1 and Type 2 design varieties, the 1886 Indian Head Cent is known for several minor die varieties, all of which are Repunched Dates (RPDs). These varieties occur when a numeral punch is impressed into the working die more than once in slightly different positions, creating visible doubling in the date.
All documented RPDs for 1886 occur on the Type 1 obverse. The concentration of die preparation errors on the Type 1 hub is noteworthy and likely relates to production challenges with the higher relief design. The authoritative catalog for these varieties is the "Flying Eagle & Indian Cent Attribution Guide" by Rick Snow, and varieties are commonly referred to by their Snow number.
Snow-1 (RPD-003)
Clear repunching is visible on both the top and bottom loops of the final '8' in the date. This is one of the more noticeable varieties and is considered scarce. It adds a modest premium, primarily for coins grading Extremely Fine or higher. Under magnification, the doubled loops are readily apparent.
Snow-2 (RPD-004)
Doubling is evident on the top of the final '8' and the top of the second '8'. This variety is also scarce and adds a modest premium for variety specialists. The repunching on two digits makes this an interesting diagnostic for collectors focused on die varieties.
Snow-3 (RPD-005)
A clear secondary '6' is visible within the primary '6', creating what appears to be a "6 over 6" effect. This is considered a Very Scarce variety and commands a stronger premium than Snow-1 or Snow-2, particularly in higher grades. The dramatic doubling of the '6' makes this one of the most desirable RPD varieties for 1886.
Snow-4 through Snow-9
The remaining cataloged varieties (Snow-4, Snow-5, Snow-6, Snow-7, Snow-8, and Snow-9) show varying degrees of repunching on the '6' and '8' digits. Snow-4 and Snow-8 show minor repunching that often requires magnification to detect and add minimal premiums. Snow-5 and Snow-9 are considered common RPDs that add little to no premium. Snow-6 and Snow-7 are scarce varieties that add modest premiums.
Valuation of Die Varieties
No reliable public pricing is available for these specific Snow varieties from major grading services like PCGS or NGC. Their market is driven by a niche group of variety specialists. As a general rule, prominent and easily visible varieties like Snow-3 can add a premium of 25-50% or more to the coin's base value in grades of Extremely Fine or higher. Minor varieties may only add 5-10%, if any. Certification by a variety attribution service can help establish authenticity and increase marketability.
For collectors interested in die varieties, detailed images and reference materials are available through specialized resources such as IndianVarieties.com, which provides diagnostic photographs and attribution assistance.
Mint Errors and Their Values
Mint errors on 1886 Indian Head Cents range from common minor imperfections to dramatic and valuable major errors. The value of an error coin depends heavily on its type, severity, and the overall condition of the host coin. Collectors must distinguish between genuine mint errors and post-mint damage, which has no numismatic value.
Major Errors
Double Strikes: This rare error occurs when a coin is struck twice by the dies, with the planchet shifting position between strikes. A documented example exists of an 1886 Type 2 cent that was struck a second time 75% off-center, graded AU-55 BN by NGC. Major double strike errors of this magnitude can be valued in the high hundreds to low thousands of dollars, depending on auction venue and bidder interest. The dramatic nature of the error and the desirability of the Type 2 variety make such pieces particularly sought after.
Off-Center Strikes: These errors occur when the planchet is not properly seated between the dies during striking. Value is determined by the percentage the strike is off-center and whether the date remains fully visible. Minor off-center strikes (10-20% off-center with full date) add a premium of $50-$100 to the coin's base value. Dramatic examples (50% off-center with full date visible) can be worth $300 or more. Off-center strikes where the date is missing are worth significantly less, as the specific date cannot be confirmed.
Minor Errors
Filled Dies (Grease Strikes): This common error occurs when grease or debris fills a portion of the die, preventing the design from being fully struck. A specific example of a "filled die '8'" has been noted in the marketplace. Such errors are very common and usually add no significant value unless a large portion of the design is missing, creating a dramatic effect.
Die Cracks: Fine cracks that develop in the die can transfer to struck coins as raised lines. Minor die cracks are extremely common on 19th-century cents and add no value. A prominent, long "bisecting" die crack that runs across a major portion of the coin might add a premium of $20-$50 for its visual interest to error collectors.
Die Clashes: When the dies strike together without a planchet between them, faint impressions of the reverse design can transfer to the obverse die (and vice versa). These impressions then appear on subsequently struck coins. Minor die clashes are common and add no value. A very strong, clearly visible die clash might add $20-$50 to the coin's value.
⚠️ Beware of Misleading Error Claims
Collectors should exercise extreme caution with online listings advertising vague "misprint" or "error" coins at high prices. These are often either damaged coins or common minor imperfections with vastly inflated asking prices. Genuine, valuable errors are specific, well-documented types. When in doubt, seek authentication from a reputable third-party grading service.
Authentication and Problem Detection
Cleaned coins show unnatural brightness and hairline scratches
While the 1886 Indian Head Cent is not a primary target for counterfeiters like key dates such as 1877 or 1909-S, the high value of uncirculated Type 2 examples makes authentication important. Additionally, identifying cleaned or otherwise damaged coins is crucial, as such problems dramatically reduce value.
Counterfeit Detection: Genuine 1886 cents have sharp, well-defined details in Liberty's headdress and the reverse wreath. Counterfeits often appear "mushy," soft, or indistinct. Examine the fields carefully—many fakes exhibit a porous, granular, or pimpled surface texture that is inconsistent with a genuine strike. The date and lettering on genuine coins are crisp and have a specific style. Fakes may have incorrectly shaped or sized digits, or letters that appear rounded and poorly formed. Weight verification is also useful—a genuine 1886 cent should weigh 3.11 grams.
Identifying Cleaned Coins: A coin that has been improperly cleaned is considered damaged and will trade at a substantial discount. The most common sign of cleaning is the presence of fine, parallel hairline scratches across the coin's surface, visible under magnification. These are caused by rubbing the coin with an abrasive material. A cleaned coin may have a deceptively shiny or bright appearance but will lack the original, radiating "cartwheel" luster of an uncirculated coin. Chemical dipping often leaves the coin with an unnatural, uniform pinkish or orange hue.
Look for uneven toning patterns. Dark patina remaining in the protected crevices around letters, numbers, and design elements while the outer surfaces are bright indicates that the coin was stripped of its original toning while the recessed areas were missed. Natural, attractive toning that develops over decades can actually enhance a coin's eye appeal and value, especially on proofs. Desirable toning includes iridescent rainbow hues or deep blue and green colors. Artificial toning, however, is considered damage.
When to Seek Professional Grading: For any 1886 Indian Head Cent that appears to be in About Uncirculated or better condition, or any coin that appears to be a Type 2 variety, professional grading and authentication is highly recommended. Services such as PCGS and NGC provide expert authentication, accurate grading, and encapsulation that protects the coin and enhances its marketability. The cost of certification is typically justified by the increased confidence and value it provides for coins worth more than a few hundred dollars.
Preservation and Long-Term Care
Proper storage and handling are essential to protect your 1886 Indian Head Cents from environmental damage and preserve their condition and value. Copper coins are particularly susceptible to toning and corrosion, making careful preservation even more critical.
Handling Best Practices: Always hold coins by their edges between your thumb and forefinger. To prevent fingerprints, which can cause permanent corrosive damage from skin oils, it is highly recommended to wear soft, lint-free cotton gloves when handling uncirculated or proof specimens. Never touch the obverse or reverse surfaces directly.
Storage Environment: The ideal storage environment is cool, dry, and stable. Avoid areas with high humidity or frequent temperature fluctuations, such as basements or attics, as these conditions can promote corrosion and spotting on copper coins. A climate-controlled interior room is preferable.
Coin Holders and Albums: Use only archival-quality, inert materials for storage. For raw (ungraded) coins, 2x2 inch cardboard holders with Mylar windows or PVC-free plastic "flips" are safe and economical options. Avoid any soft, flexible plastic flips, as they likely contain PVC, which can leach a damaging green slime onto the coin's surface over time. For high-value coins, the best protection is offered by third-party grading service holders, or "slabs." These are made of hard, inert plastic and are sonically sealed, providing a high degree of protection against environmental contaminants and physical damage.
Never Clean Your Coins: Cleaning a coin will permanently damage its surfaces and drastically reduce its value. Even gentle cleaning methods leave microscopic scratches and remove the natural patina that develops over time. If you believe your coin is dirty or tarnished, consult a professional numismatist before taking any action. In the vast majority of cases, leaving the coin in its original state is the best course of action.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1886 Indian Head Cent worth?
Value depends on three critical factors: variety (Type 1 or Type 2), condition (grade), and color (for uncirculated coins). Circulated Type 1 examples range from $8-$125, while circulated Type 2 examples range from $10-$300. Uncirculated examples command dramatically higher prices, with Type 1 ranging from $275-$34,075 and Type 2 from $350-$48,300, depending on grade and color designation. Proof coins range from $275-$6,500.
What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2?
The difference lies in the position of the lowest feather tip in Liberty's headdress relative to the word "AMERICA." On Type 1, the feather tip points between the 'I' and 'C' of AMERICA. On Type 2, it points between the 'C' and 'A'. Type 2 also features slightly lower relief overall. The change was made mid-year by Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber to improve striking characteristics and die longevity.
How rare is the 1886 Type 2 cent?
The Type 2 is significantly scarcer than the Type 1, with an estimated 3,650,000 pieces struck compared to 14,000,000 Type 1 pieces. PCGS estimates around 3,450 Type 2 examples survive across all grades, compared to 4,000-4,600 Type 1 examples. The Type 2 is particularly rare in uncirculated condition with original red color, making it a key condition rarity in the Indian Head Cent series.
Do 1886 Indian Head Cents have mint marks?
No. All 1886 Indian Head Cents were produced at the Philadelphia Mint, which did not use a mint mark during this era. The absence of a mint mark confirms Philadelphia origin.
What are RD, RB, and BN designations?
These are color designations used by grading services for uncirculated copper coins. RD (Red) means at least 90% original red luster remains and commands the highest premiums. RB (Red-Brown) indicates 10-90% red remaining, with mixed brown patina. BN (Brown) means less than 10% red remains, with full brown patina. Color dramatically affects value—a RD coin can be worth 3-10 times more than a BN coin in the same grade.
Should I get my 1886 cent professionally graded?
For any coin that appears to be About Uncirculated or better, or any Type 2 specimen regardless of grade, professional grading is highly recommended. Services like PCGS and NGC provide expert authentication, accurate grading, and protective encapsulation. The cost is typically justified for coins worth more than a few hundred dollars, as certification enhances both confidence and marketability.
How can I tell if my coin has been cleaned?
Look for fine, parallel hairline scratches under magnification, unnatural brightness or uniform color that lacks original cartwheel luster, and uneven toning (dark patina in crevices but bright on surfaces). Cleaned coins are considered damaged and trade at substantial discounts. Natural, attractive toning is desirable, but any signs of artificial brightening or chemical treatment reduce value.
What are Snow varieties for 1886?
Snow varieties are Repunched Date (RPD) varieties documented by numismatic scholar Rick Snow. All nine documented RPD varieties for 1886 occur on Type 1 cents. They range from common varieties that add little value (Snow-5, Snow-9) to scarce varieties that add modest premiums (Snow-1, Snow-2, Snow-6, Snow-7) to the very scarce Snow-3, which can add 25-50% or more to the coin's value in higher grades.
Are proof 1886 cents valuable?
Yes. The U.S. Mint produced 4,290 proof cents in 1886 for collectors. Type 1 proofs (approximately 2,500 struck) are more common and range from $275-$5,000 depending on grade and color. Type 2 proofs (approximately 1,750 struck) are significantly scarcer and range from $325-$6,500. Any proof with Cameo or Deep Cameo designation commands substantial additional premiums.
Can I safely store my 1886 cents at home?
Yes, with proper materials and environment. Use archival-quality holders (2x2 cardboard with Mylar windows or PVC-free plastic flips). Store in a cool, dry, stable environment away from humidity and temperature fluctuations. For high-value coins, consider a safe deposit box or home safe. Never use holders containing PVC, which can damage copper coins over time. Third-party graded coins in sealed holders (slabs) have excellent built-in protection.
Valuation Methodology and Sources
The price ranges and market analysis presented in this guide are compiled from authoritative numismatic sources as of late 2025. Primary sources include the PCGS CoinFacts database and price guide, the NGC Coin Explorer and price guide, and documented auction results from major auction houses. Variety information is sourced from the authoritative work of Rick Snow and cross-referenced with the PCGS and NGC variety attribution systems.
Mintage figures and historical information are drawn from official U.S. Mint records and scholarly numismatic research. Market values reflect retail prices and recent auction results, understanding that actual realized prices can vary based on market conditions, auction venue, and individual coin characteristics. Collectors should note that coin values fluctuate based on market demand, metal prices, and collector trends. The values presented represent general market conditions and should be used as guidelines rather than absolute figures.
For the most current pricing on specific coins, consult real-time auction results or obtain professional appraisals from certified numismatists. Additional reference materials include Coin World price guides, Stack's Bowers educational resources, and scholarly articles from CoinWeek and other numismatic publications.
