Price Guide for 1863 Cent Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $10.00 – $998.75Uncirculated: $31.00 – $24,000.00
-
eBayCirculated: $4.80 – $569.05Uncirculated: $0.99 – $4,250.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $8.00 – $155.00Uncirculated: $165.00 – $26,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3.10 – $12,075.00
-
eBayCirculated: $512.30Uncirculated: $481.00 – $2,400.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $375.00 – $16,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $168.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $650.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $180.00 – $258.50
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $425.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $518.00 – $1,560.00
-
eBayUncirculated: $1,525.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $55.00 – $675.00Uncirculated: $725.00 – $4,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $748.00 – $28,800.00
-
eBayUncirculated: $1,425.00 – $2,355.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $400.00 – $30,500.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $15,275.00 – $16,800.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,500.00 – $18,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1863 Cent
The 1863 Indian Head Cent was minted during the height of the American Civil War. This coin represents a significant period in American history, as it was produced when the nation was deeply divided. The Indian Head design, introduced in 1859, continued to be popular and would remain in production until 1909.
The absence of silver and gold coins in circulation due to hoarding during the war made copper cents even more crucial for daily commerce. As a result, the 1863 cent played a vital role in the economy during this tumultuous time.
| Weight | 4.67 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 19.0 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia only) |
| Composition | 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc |
| Obverse Design | Indian Head, designed by James Barton Longacre |
| Reverse Design | Oak wreath and shield, designed by James Barton Longacre |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1863 Indian Head Cent significantly impacts its value. Due to its high mintage and extensive circulation, well-preserved specimens are highly sought after by collectors. Coins in Mint State (MS) condition, particularly those grading MS65 or higher, command substantial premiums.
Key factors affecting value include:
1. Original mint luster: Coins retaining their original cartwheel luster are more desirable.
2. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with sharp details, especially on the Indian’s headdress and the wreath, are more valuable.
3. Color: Original red or red-brown specimens are preferred over fully brown examples.
4. Surface preservation: Coins free from significant marks, scratches, or other imperfections are more valuable.
Mintage: 49,840,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved specimens
Additional factors influencing the 1863 Cent’s value include:
1. Historical significance: As a Civil War-era coin, it holds appeal for both coin collectors and history enthusiasts.
2. Toning: Attractive, natural toning can enhance a coin’s appeal and value.
3. Provenance: Coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors may command a premium.
4. Certification: Coins graded and encapsulated by reputable third-party grading services often sell for higher prices than raw (ungraded) specimens.
While not typically considered a rare date, high-grade 1863 cents are scarce and can be valuable due to the challenge of finding well-preserved examples from this historically significant year.
