Expert: Brad Swain - 1/30/2010

Question
Hi Brian, I would like to know how to have my 1900 U.S. Indian Head Penny (ONE CENT) tested for gold without destroying its value and, too, what you believe to be its approximate value. Condition: 'LIBERTY' is no longer visible on the headdress. Generally, loss of definition,but still a lovely coin in what I believe to be good condition. There is no mint mark. Thank you for any advice/information you are able to share with me. Mary

Answer
Hi Mary, No gold cents were made by the mint. It has likely been thinly gold plated or painted. A cut on the edge with a razor blade may show the copper color inside.
A regular bronze 1900 cent collector value may be worth about $2 with heavy wear to around $6 with moderate wear to maybe $10 with light wear. There were 66.8 million minted that year.
You might also try a library for a copy of the Guidebook of United States Coins for pictures, values and lots more interesting info.
Brad