The 1897 Indian Head Penny is a beloved coin among collectors, known for its historical charm, copper composition, and affordability. But how much is your 1897 penny really worth?
In this guide, we’ll break down the 1897 Indian Head Penny value by grade, color, and condition. You’ll also learn how these coins are graded, discover rare error varieties, and get answers to the most frequently asked questions. Let’s get started!
History of the 1897 Indian Head Penny
The Indian Head Cent series was minted from 1859 to 1909 (not 1959, as commonly misprinted). The 1897 edition was struck at the Philadelphia Mint and features no mint mark.
- Designer: James B. Longacre
- Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
- Mintage: 50,464,392 circulation coins, 1,938 proof coins
1897 Indian Head Penny Value Chart
| Coin Variety | Grade MS/PR60 | Grade MS/PR63 | Grade MS65/PR67 | Grade MS67/PR68 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1897 No Mint Mark (Regular) | $80 | $200 | $1,000 | $14,500 |
| 1897 No Mint Mark (Proof) | $225 | $400 | $1,200 | – |
💡 Values vary depending on the coin’s color (Brown, Red/Brown, Red).
Coin Grading Explained
Coins are graded on the Sheldon Scale (1–70). Here’s a simplified breakdown:
| Grade Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Basal State |
| 4–6 | Good |
| 12–15 | Fine |
| 20–30 | Very Fine |
| 40 | Extremely Fine |
| 50 | About Uncirculated |
| 60–70 | Mint State (MS) |
| 60–70 (PR) | Proof Grade (PR) |
- MS stands for Mint State (uncirculated coins)
- PR stands for Proof (collector-intended coins with mirror finishes)
1897 Indian Head Penny Color Designations
The color of a copper coin significantly affects its value:
- Brown (BN): Most common, lower value
- Red/Brown (RB): Mid-range value
- Red (RD): Most desirable and valuable
Example:
- MS66 Brown = ~$700
- MS66 Red/Brown = ~$1,450
- MS66 Red = ~$4,000+
1897 No Mint Mark Indian Head Penny (Regular Strike)
Circulation Coin Highlights:
- Mintage: 50,464,392
- In worn condition: $2–$10
- In MS60–MS65: $80–$1,000
- In MS67 Red: Up to $14,500
- Record Sale: $45,600 (MS67 Red, 2019)
This coin is a favorite for beginners thanks to its accessibility in lower grades, while high-grade red examples are rare and command premium prices.
1897 Proof Indian Head PennyOnly 1,938 proof coins were minted in 1897, making them rare collectibles.
- PR60: ~$225
- PR63: ~$400
- PR67: ~$1,200
- PR68: Est. $12,500+
Record Sale:
- $108,000 (MS67 RD, 2021)
Proof coins can be identified by their mirror-like fields and sharp details—look for a clearly defined “LIBERTY” on the headdress for minimal wear.
Rare 1897 Indian Head Penny Errors
1. Neck Protrusion (“1 in Neck”)
- Cause: Misplaced date punch visible in the neck area
- Value: $30 (worn) to $3,000+ (higher grades)
2. Double Strike
- Cause: Coin struck twice due to ejection error
- Value: $300 and up depending on severity
3. Repunched Date (RPD)
- Cause: Date punched twice slightly off-position
- Value: $150 (typical) to $30,000+ (rare, high grade)
These error coins are highly collectible and can dramatically increase a coin’s value beyond its grade or color.
Where to Sell Your 1897 Indian Head Penny
Looking to sell your coin? Here are your best options:
- Online Auction Sites – eBay, Heritage Auctions, Great Collections
- Coin Dealer Shops – Look for reputable local dealers
- Coin Shows & Conventions – Good for in-person negotiations
- Certified Coin Grading Services – PCGS or NGC grading can boost your coin’s credibility and price
💡 Get a free appraisal through trusted platforms before you sell.
FAQs
Q: What is the most valuable 1897 Indian Head Penny ever sold?
A: An MS67 Red sold for $45,600 in 2019; a PR67 RD proof sold for $108,000 in 2021.
Q: How do I know if my penny is a proof?
A: Proofs have mirror-like surfaces and sharper design details. Look for a strong “LIBERTY” on the headband.
Q: Does the 1897 Indian Head Penny have a mint mark?
A: No, all 1897 Indian Head Pennies were minted in Philadelphia, which did not use a mint mark at the time.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have a circulated brown coin worth a few dollars, or a rare red MS67 gem worth thousands, the 1897 Indian Head Penny is a beautiful piece of American numismatic history.
It’s a great entry point for beginner collectors and can still offer serious value in high grades or with rare errors. Be sure to get your coin professionally graded and always look out for potential error varieties that can turn an ordinary coin into a treasure.