1888 Indian Head Cent Pitted

Updated September 4, 2026

The consignor's list says 1883. The coin does not. Rotating and magnifying the close-up shows the digits reading 1-8-8-8, and the consignor's own flip is written 1888, so this is cataloged as an 1888 Indian Head cent. In fairness, the fourth digit is worn and encrusted, and at this resolution an 8 cannot be separated from a 3 with total certainty, so study the photographs and judge for yourself. There is no mint mark below the wreath bow, correct for an 1880s Indian cent. Condition is rough, about Good to Very Good with problems. The obverse is heavily pitted and porous under dense dark corrosion, the headdress is soft and LIBERTY is not readable, though UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is complete and bold. The reverse is better, with a full wreath, readable ONE CENT and a visible shield, but it too is dark, granular and pitted with black crust in the recesses. This is environmental damage, and those surfaces will stay as they are. Estimated Value: $2 to $5. Sold as-is. Photos are the most accurate description of this lot. Written descriptions are a guide only and may contain errors. Please review all photos before bidding.

Register & bid on this lot at Bidspirit →

More lots in this auction

• 1906 Indian Head Cent
• 1943-D Lincoln Steel Penny
• 1943 Lincoln Steel Wheat Cent Corroded
• 1943-D Lincoln Wheat Cent Steel
• 1943 Lincoln Steel Wheat Cent Rusted
• 1943-S Lincoln Steel Wheat Cent Rusted
• 1943-D Lincoln Steel Cent Corroded
• Lincoln Wheat Cent Date Reads 1942 Steel Gray

See all lots in September 13th Special Coin Auction →