Hi all, I need some help. I bought off ebay a indian head penny dated 1889 and received it yesterday. It looks fine but when I put in my binder next to my 1907 Indian head penny it was smaller than my 1907. I only have a tablet so I cannot post pics but the size of this cent is close to a Roosevelt dime. The eBay item number is 221320376146. I googled the indian head penny and they are all the same size. I might have a fake???? John
Here's a link to the auction: http://www.ebay.com/itm/1889-INDIAN...D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557
As far as I know, all bronze Indian head cents (1864-1909) were the same size. I have a full collection. The picture of it looks very genuine. I wouldn't think it would be very profitable to make such fakes.
Let me add that there isn't that much difference between the diameter of the cent and dime (19 mm to 17.9 mm).
Thanks for the info but the physical size between this cent and a regular indian head cent is different. I am going to bring it to the coin store near my job on Monday and get their opinion on it.
Well, it is a strange situation, and I am no expert. The coin looks good. I wonder if it fits into its slot in a coin folder or album. Is your 1907 too big?
Is this a clue?: http://www.usacoinbook.com/coins/316/small-cents/indian-head-cent/1889-P/ I'm editing this post. I thought I was onto something here, but maybe all cents after 1857 are called "small cents."
looks genuine to me. you should weigh it (or have it weighed). all indian cents (post 1864 anyway, should weigh the same).