The 1875 Indian Head Cent is a desirable coin for collectors due to its historical significance and mid-19th-century design. While not the rarest date in the Indian Head cent series, it is still valuable in higher grades, making it a target for counterfeiters. Detecting counterfeit examples of this coin requires a careful examination of the details, metal composition, and striking characteristics.
Why the 1875 Indian Head Cent is Targeted
The Indian Head cent series (1859–1909) has long been a favorite among collectors, and certain dates, including the 1875 issue, hold added value. The 1875 Indian Head cent had a mintage of approximately 13.5 million coins, making it relatively available, but counterfeits still appear in the marketplace. Fraudulent versions often attempt to pass as high-grade specimens or rare varieties, deceiving unsuspecting buyers.
Common Counterfeiting Methods
1. Cast Counterfeits
One of the most frequent types of counterfeit 1875 Indian Head cents is cast copies, made by creating a mold from a genuine coin and then pouring metal into it. These coins typically exhibit soft details, grainy surfaces, and small pits due to trapped air bubbles during the casting process. Cast fakes may also have an unusual weight compared to genuine examples.
2. Altered Dates
Another common counterfeit technique is altering the date of a lower-value Indian Head cent to make it appear as an 1875 issue. This is often done by modifying the last digit in the date from a more common year, such as 1873 or 1878, using engraving tools. Under magnification, these altered digits may appear irregular, with tool marks or differences in font size and spacing.
3. Wrong Metal Composition
The 1875 Indian Head cent was made of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, giving it a distinct reddish-brown or brown color depending on its condition. Some counterfeit versions use incorrect metal compositions, which can be detected with a magnet test (genuine Indian Head cents are non-magnetic) or an advanced spectrometry test to analyze metal content.
Key Authentication Techniques
1. Weight and Dimensions
A genuine 1875 Indian Head cent should weigh 3.11 grams and have a diameter of 19 mm. Counterfeits may be slightly heavier or lighter due to incorrect metal composition or striking methods. Using a precision scale and calipers can help detect fakes.
2. Edge Examination
Authentic 1875 cents have a plain edge with consistent wear. Counterfeit coins, especially cast copies, may show irregularities on the rim or seams from the casting process.
3. Die Characteristics
Studying the die characteristics of the Indian Head cent series is essential for authentication. A genuine 1875 Indian Head cent should have:
- A sharp, well-defined portrait of Liberty wearing a Native American headdress.
- Correct positioning and spacing of the date.
- A uniform rim and properly aligned lettering in “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”
Many counterfeits have mushy details or an incorrectly shaped bust and feathers, which can be detected under magnification.
Conclusion
As counterfeiting techniques improve, collectors must stay vigilant when purchasing key-date Indian Head cents like the 1875 issue. Careful examination using magnification, weight testing, and authentication techniques can help detect counterfeit coins before they enter a collection. When in doubt, it’s always best to seek professional authentication from reputable grading services like PCGS or NGC to ensure the coin’s legitimacy.
FAQs
How can I tell if my 1875 Indian Head cent is real?
Check the weight, edge, and die details under magnification. Look for irregularities in the date or cast surfaces that indicate a counterfeit.
Are counterfeit 1875 Indian Head cents common?
While not as common as key-date coins, fakes do exist, especially altered-date versions and cast counterfeits.
Where can I get an 1875 Indian Head cent authenticated?
Professional grading services like PCGS, NGC, or ANACS offer authentication and grading services for Indian Head cents.