Widely collected and instantly recognizable, the Indian Head Cent holds an enduring place in the story of American coinage. Produced by the United States Mint from 1859 to 1909, this small-denomination issue marked an important design transition, as U.S. coins began moving away from strictly classical themes in favor of imagery that expressed an emerging national identity. This 1909 specimen marks the final issue of these popular US copper pennies, featuring a coveted RD designation for its rich copper color. Today, the 1909 Indian Head Cent is available at JM Bullion.

Coin Highlights:

• Comes with an individual plastic slab!
• Final issue of Indian Head Cents!
• Type II reverse images!
• Distinctive RD designation!
• Contains 3.11 grams of 95% copper.
• The face value is $.01 (USD).
• Graded Mint State 64 by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation.
• On the obverse is the Liberty image with a headdress.
• The reverse features the Union Shield and oak-and-laurel wreath.
• Please note that there may be a variation in the exact appearance of each coin in this listing.

The series concluded in 1909, when the Indian Head design was replaced by Victor David Brenner’s Lincoln Cent to commemorate the centennial of Abraham Lincoln’s birth, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in American coinage that would feature actual historical figures rather than allegorical representations. This 1909 issue is a must-have for collectors as final releases in any series represent a key date.

This 1909 Indian Head Cent comes in Mint State 64 condition, with several small contact marks and only one or two heavier marks. The eye appeal is considered quite attractive overall. This specimen exhibits a vibrant, fully red-orange copper color, as indicated by its RD designation. The fields feature a satin-like luster that is even and bright on both sides of the coin.

The obverse of the 1909 Indian Head Cent depicts Liberty in a left-facing profile, wearing a headdress inspired by Native American styles. Designed by Mint Engraver James B. Longacre, this image has received both praise and scrutiny throughout its history. Though commonly called the Indian Head design, the portrait does not represent a Native American individual. Instead, it shows Liberty adorned with a feathered headdress, uniting traditional allegorical imagery with symbolic elements drawn from Native American culture.

On the reverse of the 1909 Indian Head Cent is the Type II design that replaced earlier versions of the series. The Indian Head Cent experienced an important transition during its years of production. Coins dated 1859 to 1860 originally displayed a laurel wreath surrounding the denomination “ONE CENT,” but this was changed in 1860 to an oak wreath topped by a small shield. The addition of the Union Shield coincided with the outbreak of the Civil War and served as a symbol of unity amid widespread division and hardship. This shield remained on the reverse for the rest of the series, giving the design a deeper patriotic meaning beyond simple decoration.

Please contact JM Bullion if you have any questions about this historic copper coin. You can call us at 800-276-6508, chat with us online, or email us directly.