Description:
The 1864 Indian Head Cent with the “L on Ribbon” variety, certified by NGC as AU53 BN (Brown), is a scarce Civil War–era issue. Distinguished by designer James B. Longacre’s initial “L” on Liberty’s ribbon — the first U.S. coin to carry a designer’s initial — this bronze cent marked a pivotal change in U.S. coinage as the Mint transitioned away from copper-nickel. With attractive brown surfaces and strong detail for the grade, this coin is a desirable addition to any Indian Head cent or Civil War–era collection.
Specifications:
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Denomination: One Cent (1¢)
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Year of Issue: 1864
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Mint: Philadelphia (no mintmark)
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Designer: James Barton Longacre
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Series: Indian Head Cent (1859–1909)
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Variety: “L on Ribbon”
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Composition: Bronze (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc)
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Diameter: 19 mm
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Weight: 3.11 grams
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Grade: AU53 BN (Brown)
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Certification: NGC
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Holder: NGC-certified slab
Highlights:
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Certified AU53 BN by NGC
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Scarce “L on Ribbon” variety, first use of designer’s initial on U.S. coinage
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Bronze Civil War–era issue
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Designed by James Barton Longacre, U.S. Mint Chief Engraver
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Obverse: Liberty in feathered headdress with “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”
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Reverse: Laurel wreath surrounding denomination “ONE CENT”
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Historic small denomination coin from the Civil War period
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Popular with Indian Head cent and variety collectors
Historical Note:
In 1864, the U.S. Mint shifted the Indian Head cent from copper-nickel to bronze, reducing weight and improving striking quality. That year also saw the introduction of Longacre’s initial “L” on the ribbon — the first designer’s mark on a U.S. coin. This detail makes the 1864 “L on Ribbon” a key variety for Indian Head cent collectors. Certified examples such as this AU53 BN balance affordability with scarcity, making them a popular choice for Civil War–era type sets and variety specialists.
Searching for more certified Indian Head cents or Civil War–era U.S. coinage? Contact us — we carry a curated selection of historic copper coins.
