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Indian Head Cent

Indian Head Cent 1870-1889: Major Varieties and Errors

Indian Head Cent 1870-1889: Major Varieties and Errors

This middle era contains some of the series’ most recognizable date and hub distinctions, including the 1873 Closed 3 and Open 3 types, along with doubled dies, repunched dates, misplaced dates, and reverse-hub diagnostics.

Indian Head cent guide navigation

Jump to year: 1870 · 1871 · 1872 · 1873 · 1874 · 1875 · 1876 · 1877 · 1878 · 1879 · 1880 · 1881 · 1882 · 1883 · 1884 · 1885 · 1886 · 1887 · 1888 · 1889

Design and identification foundation

Mint dates: 1859-1909

Design

James Barton Longacre, chief engraver of the United States Mint, designed the Indian Head cent. The obverse depicts Liberty facing left in a feathered headdress. The 1859 reverse uses a laurel wreath; from 1860 through 1909 the reverse uses an oak-and-olive wreath with arrows and a federal shield. Copper-nickel cents were struck from 1859 into 1864, followed by bronze cents through the end of the series. San Francisco struck the only branch-mint issues in 1908 and 1909.

Key design details

Varieties

Every entry follows the same collector workflow: named variety, Do You Have One? What To Look For, catalog references, and an original CoinHunt inspection map. Structure is deliberate so collectors can compare one diagnostic at a time.

1870

1870/18-0 DDO FS-101 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Strong doubling is seen on letters “TY” of LIBERTY. The date was repunched clockwise to its first impression, with doubling visible below the 18 and above the 0.

Catalog references: NGC FS-101; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-008.6; Snow S-1, -2, -13, -22, -28, -33, -45; VarietyPlus VP-001. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1870/18-0 DDO FS-101 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1870 8/8 DDO & MPD FS-102 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Begin with the repunched 8 in the date, then examine the obverse lettering and Liberty’s portrait for the doubled-die component. NGC does not publish a written marker sequence for this record; both features must agree with a certified Snow S-5 example before attribution.

Catalog references: NGC FS-102; Snow S-5. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1870 8/8 DDO & MPD FS-102 1C MS DATE INSPECT date 8 + obverse doubling Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1870 DDO & DDR VP-005 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Look for doubling visible on LIBERTY and on ONE CENT.

Catalog references: NGC VP-005; Snow S-15. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1870 DDO & DDR VP-005 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1870/187 FS-301 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

187 are repunched, the secondary images above the primary ones.

Catalog references: NGC FS-301; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-008.81; Snow S-4. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1870/187 FS-301 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1870 MPD & DDR FS-302 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Several numerals may be seen hidden within the denticles below the date. In addition, doubling is seen within some letters of ONE CENT.

Catalog references: NGC FS-302; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-008.82; Snow S-8; VarietyPlus VP-002. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1870 MPD & DDR FS-302 1C MS DATE INSPECT reverse design Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1870 18/18 VP-004 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Numerals 18 were originally punched slightly northwest from the final impression.

Catalog references: NGC VP-004; Snow S-6. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1870 18/18 VP-004 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1870 “PICK AXE” FS-303 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Damage to the obverse die left an impression vaguely resembling a pick axe just above the designer’s initial.

Catalog references: NGC FS-303; Snow S-7,-17,-18,-27 and -41. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1870 "PICK AXE" FS-303 1C MS DATE INSPECT named design detail Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1870 DDR FS-801 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Strong doubling is seen on “ONE CENT”, the shield and the leaves.

Catalog references: NGC FS-801; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-008.7; Snow S-2,-3,-14; VarietyPlus VP-003. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1870 DDR FS-801 1C MS DATE INSPECT reverse design Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1870 REV OF 69 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The N in ONE is shallow at its bottom. The horizontal and vertical strokes at the center of each E in ONE CENT are very slender, forming more of a letter T than the trumpet shape of the new hub introduced in 1870.

Catalog references: NGC-listed type or subtype. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1870 REV OF 69 1C MS DATE INSPECT reverse design Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1871

1871 7 & 1 TOUCHING FS-301 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Numerals 71 touch, which is not the normal date configuration. This die was paired with the new reverse hub having a bold N in ONE.

Catalog references: NGC FS-301; Snow S-2. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1871 7 & 1 TOUCHING FS-301 1C MS DATE INSPECT reverse design Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1871 REV OF 69 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The N in ONE is shallow at its bottom. The horizontal and vertical strokes at the center of each E in ONE CENT are very slender, forming more of a letter T than the trumpet shape of the new hub introduced in 1870.

Catalog references: NGC-listed type or subtype. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1871 REV OF 69 1C MS DATE INSPECT reverse design Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1872

1872/1872 FS-301 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The date was repunched clockwise from the first impression. Duplicate numerals 72 are clearly visible above, while the duplicate numerals 18 below are just barely discernible.

Catalog references: NGC FS-301; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-008.9; Snow S-1; VarietyPlus VP-001. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1872/1872 FS-301 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1872/72 VP-002 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Numerals 72 are repunched, with the earlier impression being north of the final date.

Catalog references: NGC VP-002; Snow S-5. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1872/72 VP-002 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1872/872 MPD VP-003 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Numerals 872 were repunched slightly east of the first impression. In addition, the top of an errant numeral 8 is seen within the denticles below 87.

Catalog references: NGC VP-003; Snow S-4. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1872/872 MPD VP-003 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1872 REV OF 69 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The N in ONE is shallow at its bottom. The horizontal and vertical strokes at the center of each E in ONE CENT are very slender, forming more of a letter T than the trumpet shape of the new hub introduced in 1870.

Catalog references: NGC-listed type or subtype. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1872 REV OF 69 1C MS DATE INSPECT reverse design Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1873

1873 CLOSED 3 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Examine the final 3 in the date. On the Closed 3 subtype, its upper and lower knobs sit so close together that the numeral can resemble an 8. Compare that narrow opening with the clearly separated knobs of the later Open 3 subtype.

Catalog references: NGC-listed type or subtype. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1873 CLOSED 3 1C MS DATE INSPECT final 3 / narrow opening Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1873 DDO CLOSED 3 FS-101 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Extremely strong doubling is seen on “LIBERTY” the Indian’s eye, face and feathers.

Catalog references: NGC FS-101; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-009; Snow S-1 ; VarietyPlus VP-001. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1873 DDO CLOSED 3 FS-101 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1873 DDO CLOSED 3 FS-102 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Look for doubling visible on “LIBERTY” and Liberty’s eyelid.

Catalog references: NGC FS-102; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-009.1; Snow S-2; VarietyPlus VP-002. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1873 DDO CLOSED 3 FS-102 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1873 OPEN 3 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The final 3 in the date: its upper and lower knobs are clearly separated.

Catalog references: NGC-listed type or subtype. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1873 OPEN 3 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1873/73 OPEN 3 FS-1301 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Numerals 73 were repunched south of the first impression.

Catalog references: NGC FS-1301; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-009.3; Snow S-1; VarietyPlus VP-003. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1873/73 OPEN 3 FS-1301 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1873 MPD OPEN 3 FS-1302 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The junction of Liberty’s neck and pearl necklace for the top of an errant numeral 3.

Catalog references: NGC FS-1302; Snow S-6. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1873 MPD OPEN 3 FS-1302 1C MS DATE INSPECT neck / misplaced 3 Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1873 MPD OPEN 3 VP-004 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

What appears to be the upper right corner of a numeral 7 lying sideways is visible within the necklace. A large lump that is probably unrelated to the MPD is seen on Liberty’s neck.

Catalog references: NGC VP-004; Snow S-7. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1873 MPD OPEN 3 VP-004 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1874

1874 DDO FS-101 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Minor doubling on “LIBERTY”. Look for split notches on “T” of LIBERTY for verification.

Catalog references: NGC FS-101; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-009.33; Snow S-1; VarietyPlus VP-001. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1874 DDO FS-101 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1874 LUMP ON NECK VP-002 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Look for a raised lump is visible on Liberty’s neck just below the jaw line.

Catalog references: NGC VP-002; Snow S-7. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1874 LUMP ON NECK VP-002 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1875

1875 18/18 FS-301 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Numerals 18 were repunched north of the first impression.

Catalog references: NGC FS-301; Snow S-1. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1875 18/18 FS-301 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1875/1–5 FS-302 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Repunching is visible to the left of numerals 1 and 5.

Catalog references: NGC FS-302; Snow S-2. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1875/1--5 FS-302 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1875 18/18 VP-001 EDS 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Numerals 18 were repunched north of the first impression. In this early die state there is no chip visible on Liberty’s neck.

Catalog references: NGC VP-001 EDS; Snow S-3a. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1875 18/18 VP-001 EDS 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1875 18/18 VP-001 LDS 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Numerals 18 were repunched north of the first impression. In this later die state, a chip in the die is visible on Liberty’s neck adjacent to the junction of hair curl and ribbon.

Catalog references: NGC VP-001 LDS; Snow S-3b. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1875 18/18 VP-001 LDS 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1875 FILING LINES VP-002 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Bold raised lines are seen running diagonally above and below Liberty’s head.

Catalog references: NGC VP-002; Snow S-15. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1875 FILING LINES VP-002 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1875 REVERSE DOT FS-901 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Look for a raised lump is seen at the upper left of letter N in ONE.

Catalog references: NGC FS-901; Snow S-16. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1875 REVERSE DOT FS-901 1C MS DATE INSPECT named design detail Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1878

1878 MPD FS-301 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The tops of three numerals 8 are visible within the denticles below the 87 of the date.

Catalog references: NGC FS-301; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-009.4; Snow S-2. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1878 MPD FS-301 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1878/8 VP-001 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The second 8 was repunched south of the first impression, which remains visible as an hourglass shape within the upper loop.

Catalog references: NGC VP-001; Snow S-1. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1878/8 VP-001 1C MS DATE INSPECT named design detail Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1880

1880 DDO & MDC FS-101 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Minor doubling is visible on LIBERTY. A strong misaligned die clash is visible on the reverse, showing denticles through ONE CENT.

Catalog references: NGC FS-101; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-009.41; Snow S-1; VarietyPlus VP-001. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1880 DDO & MDC FS-101 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1882

1882 88/88 VP-002 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Numerals 88 were repunched north of the first impression.

Catalog references: NGC VP-002; Snow S-1. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1882 88/88 VP-002 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1882 88/88 VP-002 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The date was repunched north of its first impression.

Catalog references: NGC VP-002; Snow S-1. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1882 88/88 VP-002 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1882 BROKEN 2 FS-301 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The top of numeral 2 broke away from the punch used to date this die.

Catalog references: NGC FS-301; Snow S-2. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1882 BROKEN 2 FS-301 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1882 MPD FS-401 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The bases of several errant numerals 1 are evident within Liberty’s pearls.

Catalog references: NGC FS-401; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-009.43; Snow S-6; VarietyPlus VP-001. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1882 MPD FS-401 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1883

1883 MPD FS-301 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The tops of numerals 8 and 3 are evident within the denticles beneath and slightly to the left of 83 in the date.

Catalog references: NGC FS-301; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-009.45; Snow S-8. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1883 MPD FS-301 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1883 MPD FS-302 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Several, partial numerals 1 are seen at Liberty’s neckline and within her pearls.

Catalog references: NGC FS-302; Snow S-7. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1883 MPD FS-302 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1883 MPD FS-303 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The base of a numeral 1 protrudes boldly from the left of Liberty’s neck at the pearls.

Catalog references: NGC FS-303; Snow S-1. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1883 MPD FS-303 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1883/1883/83 VP-001 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The entire date was repunched, with duplicate numerals 83 visible both above and below the final date.

Catalog references: NGC VP-001; Snow S-2. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1883/1883/83 VP-001 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1883 MDC FS-401 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Look for a die clashing in the obverse field before Liberty’s face reveals denticles from the other die.

Catalog references: NGC FS-401; Snow S-11. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1883 MDC FS-401 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1883 DDR FS-801 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Look for a strong doubled die reverse showing on the arrows, ribbon, and leaves on the bottom of the reverse.

Catalog references: NGC FS-801; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-009.46; Snow S-6; VarietyPlus VP-001. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1883 DDR FS-801 1C MS DATE INSPECT reverse design Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1884

1884 MPD FS-301 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The tops of numerals 8 and 4 appear within the denticles beneath these same numerals of the date.

Catalog references: NGC FS-301; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-009.48; Snow S-1. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1884 MPD FS-301 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1886

1886 TYPE 1 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The lowest feather of Liberty’s headdress points between letters I and C of AMERICA, as on all cents 1859-85.

Catalog references: NGC-listed type or subtype. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1886 TYPE 1 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1886/6 TYPE 1 VP-001 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Numeral 6 was repunched, with doubling visible within both loops.

Catalog references: NGC VP-001; Snow S-1. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1886/6 TYPE 1 VP-001 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1886 TYPE 2 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The lowest feather of Liberty’s headdress points between letters C and A of AMERICA, as on all subsequent dates.

Catalog references: NGC-listed type or subtype. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1886 TYPE 2 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1886/6 TYPE 2 VP-002 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Remnants of a previously punched numeral 6 are visible within the loops of the primary 6.

Catalog references: NGC VP-002; Snow S-4. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1886/6 TYPE 2 VP-002 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1887

1887 DDO FS-101 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Very strong doubling is visible on Liberty’s feathers and “AMERICA,” as well as lesser doubling on the other obverse letters.

Catalog references: NGC FS-101; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-009.5; Snow S-1 ; VarietyPlus VP-001. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1887 DDO FS-101 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1887 MPD VP-002 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The tops of three numerals are visible within the denticles below 88 of the date.

Catalog references: NGC VP-002; Snow S-5. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1887 MPD VP-002 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1888

1888/7 FS-301 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The remains of a 7 are visible at the upper left and lower left of the second 8. Many examples also have a small rim break over letter E of UNITED.

Catalog references: NGC FS-301; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-010; Snow S-1; VarietyPlus VP-001. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1888/7 FS-301 1C MS DATE INSPECT reverse design Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1888 88/88 MPD FS-302 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Repunching is visible within the upper loops of the first and second numerals 8. A vertical line which may or may not be the remains of a 7 is seen within the upper loop of the last 8. Part of an errant 1 is also seen projecting from a pearl at Liberty’s neck.

Catalog references: NGC FS-302; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-010.7; Snow S-2; VarietyPlus VP-002. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1888 88/88 MPD FS-302 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1888 18/18 VP-003 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Numerals 18 were boldly repunched southeast of the first impression.

Catalog references: NGC VP-003; Snow S-4. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1888 18/18 VP-003 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1888 88/88 VP-004 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Numerals 88 are repunched north of the first impressions.

Catalog references: NGC VP-004; Snow S-5. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1888 88/88 VP-004 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1888/8 VP-005 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The final 8 is repunched.

Catalog references: NGC VP-005; Snow S-6. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1888/8 VP-005 1C MS DATE INSPECT named design detail Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1888 MPD VP-006 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The tops of two errant 8s are seen within the denticles below the date.

Catalog references: NGC VP-006; Snow S-8. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1888 MPD VP-006 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1888 MPD VP-007 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Either the base of the flag of a numeral 1 projects left from Liberty’s neck.

Catalog references: NGC VP-007; Snow S-11. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1888 MPD VP-007 1C MS DATE INSPECT LIBERTY / headband Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1888 MPD VP-008 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The tops of two numerals 8 are visible within the denticles below 88.

Catalog references: NGC VP-008; Snow S-15. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1888 MPD VP-008 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1889

1889/1889 FS-301 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

All four numerals of the date are repunched, the earlier impression being to the southwest of the final date.

Catalog references: NGC FS-301; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-010.8; Snow S-12. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1889/1889 FS-301 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1889/1889 VP-005 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The entire date was repunched north of the first impression.

Catalog references: NGC VP-005; Snow S-3. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1889/1889 VP-005 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1889/9 MPD FS-302 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Numeral 9 is distinctly repunched, with the 1 and second 8 showing only slight repunching. In addition, the tops of two numerals 8 appear within the denticles below the date.

Catalog references: NGC FS-302; Snow S-4. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1889/9 MPD FS-302 1C MS DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1889 DDR FS-801 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Look for doubling seen on the shield, leaves, ribbon and arrows of the reverse.

Catalog references: NGC FS-801; Fivaz-Stanton (OLD) FS-010.81; Snow S-1 ; VarietyPlus VP-001. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1889 DDR FS-801 1C MS DATE INSPECT reverse design Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1889 DDR FS-802 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Slight doubling is visible at the right side of the wreath.

Catalog references: NGC FS-802; Snow S-11. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1889 DDR FS-802 1C MS DATE INSPECT reverse design Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1889 DDR VP-003 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Look for doubling visible at the right side of the wreath.

Catalog references: NGC VP-003; Snow S-37. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1889 DDR VP-003 1C MS DATE INSPECT reverse design Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

1889 MDC FS-901 1C MS

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Border denticles are clashed into the reverse die, and these are visible within letter O of ONE and to the left of letter E.

Catalog references: NGC FS-901; Snow S-31. NGC VarietyPlus record.

CoinHunt original inspection map: 1889 MDC FS-901 1C MS DATE INSPECT reverse design Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt diagnostic schematic - not a coin photograph. Confirm the complete die-marker pattern against a certified reference.

Errors

Mint errors are production accidents, not repeating die varieties. The classes below are documented on Indian Head cents in certified collections and specialist literature; they are presented as error classes because individual dates and strike combinations vary. Damage, cleaning, corrosion, plating, glue, and altered dates are not Mint errors.

Off-center strike

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Part of the design is missing and an unstruck crescent remains because the planchet was not centered between the dies. Measure the approximate percentage off center and note whether the date remains visible.

CoinHunt original inspection map: Off-center strike DATE INSPECT date Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt error-identification schematic - not a coin photograph.

Broadstrike

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The coin spread beyond its normal diameter because the retaining collar did not contain the metal during the strike. Look for a wider, irregular rim while the complete central design remains present.

CoinHunt original inspection map: Broadstrike DATE INSPECT named design detail Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt error-identification schematic - not a coin photograph.

Double or multiple strike

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

A second or later strike created separated, overlapping design elements. Genuine examples show coherent repeated design, sometimes with the later strike off center or after the coin flipped.

CoinHunt original inspection map: Double or multiple strike DATE INSPECT named design detail Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt error-identification schematic - not a coin photograph.

Flipover double strike

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

One strike was followed by another after the coin turned over. Look for overlapping obverse and reverse design in opposing orientation rather than random flattened damage.

CoinHunt original inspection map: Flipover double strike DATE INSPECT reverse design Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt error-identification schematic - not a coin photograph.

Brockage

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

A previously struck coin remained in the press and transferred an incuse, mirror-image impression to the next coin. The brockage must be recessed and reversed relative to the normal raised design.

CoinHunt original inspection map: Brockage DATE INSPECT reverse design Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt error-identification schematic - not a coin photograph.

Indent

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Another blank or planchet partly overlapped the coin during striking, leaving a smooth, curved unstruck recess. The boundary should follow the edge of the overlapping planchet.

CoinHunt original inspection map: Indent DATE INSPECT named design detail Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt error-identification schematic - not a coin photograph.

Die cap / capped-die strike-through

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

A coin stuck to a die and formed a cap, either becoming cup-shaped itself or producing later coins with distorted, ghostlike design. Confirm the shape and metal flow rather than relying on weak detail alone.

CoinHunt original inspection map: Die cap / capped-die strike-through DATE INSPECT named design detail Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt error-identification schematic - not a coin photograph.

Wrong planchet or off-metal strike

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

The cent design was struck on a planchet intended for another denomination or metal. Diameter, weight, composition, edge, and design fit must agree; plating is not a Mint error.

CoinHunt original inspection map: Wrong planchet or off-metal strike DATE INSPECT named design detail Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt error-identification schematic - not a coin photograph.

Clipped planchet

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

A curved or straight segment is missing because the coin blank was cut from an overlapping or edge position in the metal strip. Look for compatible metal flow and a weakened rim opposite the clip.

CoinHunt original inspection map: Clipped planchet DATE INSPECT named design detail Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt error-identification schematic - not a coin photograph.

Lamination or split planchet

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

A flaw in the planchet alloy caused metal to peel, separate, or split. Genuine lamination follows the metal and should not look like a gouge, corrosion pit, or peeled plating.

CoinHunt original inspection map: Lamination or split planchet DATE INSPECT named design detail Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt error-identification schematic - not a coin photograph.

Struck-through

Do You Have One? What To Look For:

Foreign material came between a die and the planchet, leaving an impressed texture or missing design. A retained struck-through keeps the object; most examples retain only its impression.

CoinHunt original inspection map: Struck-through DATE INSPECT named design detail Schematic only Compare exact die markers before attribution

Original CoinHunt error-identification schematic - not a coin photograph.

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Sources

  1. NGC VarietyPlus: Indian Cents (1859-1909). NGC. Catalog list, cross-references, and diagnostics accessed September 25, 2026.
  2. PCGS: The Popular Off-Center Strike. PCGS. Off-center strike definition and identification.
  3. PCGS: The Two Types of Struck-Through Error Coins. PCGS. Struck-through and retained struck-through definitions.
  4. Indian Cent Mint Error Collection. Mint Error News. Certified Indian cent examples of broadstrikes, multiple strikes, off-center strikes, brockages, indents, capped-die strikes, and wrong-planchet errors.
  5. 1859 Indian Head cent obverse die cap. Coin World. Documented 1859 die-cap example.

Editorial boundary: NGC is credited for its catalog and diagnostic research. CoinHunt does not reproduce NGC photographs. The SVG inspection maps are original educational schematics and are not substitutes for certified comparison images.

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