1860-1864 Indian, Oak Wreath, Copper-Nickel - More Details

Seemingly wild in popularity, this copper-nickel alloy cent became the coin of highest production numbers to date. It was produced all through the Civil War and for some unknown reason prompted hoarding in large numbers by 1863. This hoarding removed most of the coins from circulation. The 1860-1864 years have a different reverse from the proceeding and illustrate a broad wreath of oak leaves, surmounted with a shield, enclosing ONE CENT. The obverse Indian head motif remains the same as used in 1859.

Uncirculated coins are scarce, and superb Uncirculated pieces are rare. Proofs are rare; with most of them showing some normal flecks or oxidation marks. Superb Proofs are extremely rare.

The numismatist today can easily acquire a representative 1860-1864 copper-nickel Indian cent in any grade from Good through AU, although 1861 is more expensive and is considered to be a slightly scarcer date.