1876 Indian Cent

Hi Cuprous,
Wow, that's a nice Indian! I can see how it might have caught your attention!

LIBERTY is completely sharp with no weakness, the feather ribs are complete almost to the tips, and the oak acorns are very strong. I can't tell if the 4 diamonds are full, but I would expect so given the overall solid strike.

The obverse denticles are a trifle weak near the date, but that is a very minor defect. I think I see a trace of wear on the reverse ribbon, although I don't see wear on the Indian's cheek. I can't judge luster from these photos but I expect it is present.

I think this is could go either high AU or Mint State. If luster is present and intact over the high points (like the reverse ribbon), I'd say MS-63 BN. Otherwise, AU-58.

If you don't have one already, make sure you pick up a nice 1877 to keep this coin company!

Yes, nice coin. Theory is that coins of this age and condition often were stored in cabinet drawers lined with cloth, which could result in "rub" on the reverse and none on the obverse. This was often mentioned in several Bowers auction catalogs many years ago. I have only seen one such cabinet, and could see how coins could slide on the cloth. Such a nice coin for the date.

Jim