Expert: Jim Lawniczak - 6/5/2007

Question
how can i go about finding the value of a 1906 indian head
penny, on the back is a wreath with a shield on top?

Answer
Condition is critical to the value of any coin, with pieces being worth many multiples depending on condition.  If you cent is very worn or has problems, such as lots of marks, or major marks, or is cleaned, then it will be worth very little, under a dollar.  If it is in pristing condition, exactly as minted with no marks or fingerprints noticeable, then it could be worth several hundred dollars.  It is very unlikely that you have a piece that has survived 101 years without someone putting a fingerprint on it, or a mark or cleaning it, or it being used in circulation, but it is possible.  There is nothing that you can do to increase the value of your piece, by rubbing or cleaning it, you'll just decrease the value.  Go to www.ebay.com and do a search for 1906 cent; and then 1906 penny, and you'll see lots of them up for sale in all different conditions, and you can compare what it offered and the condition it is in with your piece, and see what prices are being asked and (more important) what prices are being offered, Jim Lawniczak