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1860 Pointed Bust

Small Cents · Indian Head Cents · 1859–1909
Variety
Weight4.67 g
Diameter19 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 20,566,000 Combined mintage for all 1860 varieties
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition88% Copper, 12% Nickel
DesignerJames B. Longacre
Collector's Key IDCK-311

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About this coinHistory

The 1860 Pointed Bust variety uses an obverse die where the lowest point of Liberty's bust is shaped to a sharper, more angular point than on standard 1860 dies. The distinction is in the contour of the bust truncation at the bottom of the portrait, which is more rounded on the standard version and more tapered on the Pointed Bust. The difference is subtle but consistent across all coins from this die.

The Pointed Bust is a transitional variety that connects the 1859 portrait style to the 1860 modifications. Some specialists believe the Pointed Bust dies were prepared earlier, possibly carrying forward a portrait punch from the 1859 production, before the standard 1860 bust style was finalized. The variety is recognized by major grading services and carries a modest premium over the standard 1860.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G) $19.50 $23
VG-8 Very Good (VG) $28 $32
F-12 Fine (F) $36 $42
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $53 $61
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $85 $98
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU) $135 $155
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS) $245 $280
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS) $615 $650
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1860 Pointed Bust Indian Head Cent worth?
In Good condition it runs about $19.50–$23, rising to roughly $245–$280 in Uncirculated. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1860 Pointed Bust Indian Head Cents were minted?
20,566,000 were struck (Combined mintage for all 1860 varieties).
What is a 1860 Pointed Bust Indian Head Cent made of?
88% Copper, 12% Nickel, weighing 4.67 g.
What is the melt value of a 1860 Pointed Bust Indian Head Cent?
Its melt value is its metal content multiplied by the current spot price. See our melt calculator on the metals pages for a live figure.
Is the 1860 Pointed Bust Indian Head Cent a key date?
It's a more common date overall, though scarcer die varieties may carry a premium — see the varieties list.