I've discovered in an old box of coins what looks like an Indian head cent dated 1820. From everything I've read, these weren't minted until 1859. The date is a bit smudged, but almost definitely 1820; the coin is thinner than others in the series---I'll try and scan it in, but would appreicate if anyone has any ideas. Thanks david
Well couldn't be an Indian head cent if it's dated 1820... sure it's not 1880? If it is actually dated 1820 then most likely it's a different coin, though what it could be I'm not sure. Maybe with pictures we can figure it out.
Thanks for your response. I think you might be right-- after scanning it in at high res, the 2 in the date looks like it could be a 9 with the bottom of the number missing.
I think you are correct about the 1890 date. I found a couple of 1890's that were in approximate degree of wear, and the top of the 3rd digit strongly resembles the top of mine with the "9. However, your digit seems closer to the "0" than mine, especially the lower half which could be from some damage to the bottom half of the digit as was mentioned. But I don't know how many obverse dies were used in 1890, so the closeness could just be that specific die All things that make coins so interesting! I love mysteries!
