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Question
Mr. Moore,
I have 4 Indian Head coins which appear thicker than the usual copper. 1860,(2)1863's,1859. All backs are wreaths. The 1895 is corroded. Other three good condition. Not sure if the metal is a silver/nickel metal.
Thank you.
Hi Debbi,
You're right, Indian Head cents from all years 1859 to 1863 (and some of the ones from 1864) are about 50% thicker than those from later dates. For those years they are made from a combination of copper and nickel with a total weight of 4.67 grams. Starting in mid-1864, they switched the metal to bronze (copper + zinc) and reduced the thickness of the coin and the weight to 3.11 grams.
While your 1859 in corroded condition will have very little value, the 1860 and 1863 coins in good condition are worth about $6.00 each.
I hope this helps,
Dan
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Answers by Expert:
Dan Moore
Expertise
My strong familiarity with all U.S. Mint coins, extensive reference library, and close relationships with many other dealers allows me to identify just about any coin made in the USA. I receive regular updates to all the current price guides -- both wholesale & retail -- to provide accurate values. So, with a good description or pictures, I should be able to identify and value any U.S. coin you have.
Experience
I've been a coin dealer since the 1980's and a coin collector since the 1960's. I specialize in U.S. Silver Coins and have an active online website -- The Working Man's Rare Coins -- http://www.workingmancoins.com -- offering information and inventory in U.S. coins.
Organizations I belong to :
American Numismatic Association Member #187770
Michigan State Numismatic Society Member #8255
Florida United Numismatics Member #19710
Monroe Coin Club Treasurer
Lincoln Coin Club Board Member
WINS Member #14
CoinMasters Member #1814
Frequently Asked Questions :
I have created a Frequently Asked Questions page on my website, where you may be able to get an immediate answer to your question. You can find the page here :
http://www.workingmancoins.com/FAQ/index.htm
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