1865 1c Indian Cent ANACS VG10

An 1865 1c Indian Head Cent graded ANACS VG10 is a circulated coin with a good degree of wear, but still retaining some of the essential design elements.

Let’s break down what each part means:

• 1865 1c Indian Head Cent: This refers to the one-cent coin from 1865 featuring the Indian Head design on the obverse (front) and an oak wreath with a shield on the reverse (back). The 1865 date is not considered a key date or major rarity within the Indian Head Cent series; it’s a common date.
• ANACS: As previously discussed, this signifies that the coin has been authenticated and graded by the Analytical and Numerical Coin Grading Service. ANACS is a reputable third-party grading company known for its comprehensive attribution services and for grading problem coins with “details” grades (though in this case, VG10 is a straight grade, indicating no significant problems beyond wear).
• VG10 (Very Good 10): This is the grade assigned to the coin on the Sheldon coin grading scale.
  • “VG” for Very Good: Indicates a coin that has seen considerable circulation and wear.
  • “10” for the numerical designation: Places it as a solid example within the Very Good category.

  For an 1865 Indian Head Cent in VG10 condition, you would expect to see the following:

  • Obverse (Indian Head): The outline of the Indian’s headdress feathers will be visible, but the individual feather details will be worn flat. The “LIBERTY” on the headband will be mostly visible, though possibly weak in spots. The eye and mouth details will be very faint or gone. The date will be clear and readable.
  • Reverse (Wreath): The wreath and shield outlines will be clear, but the details of the leaves and the lines on the shield will be mostly flat.

Value:

The 1865 Indian Head Cent is a common date, and a VG10 grade indicates significant wear. Therefore, the value is relatively modest.

As of late June 2025, an 1865 1c Indian Head Cent ANACS VG10 would typically have a retail value in the range of $15 to $25.

Factors that could slightly influence the value:

• Eye Appeal: Even within the same grade, a coin with attractive, even toning and no distracting damage (like scratches, dents, or significant corrosion) might fetch a little more.
• Dealer vs. Private Sale: Prices can vary between what a dealer would charge (which includes their markup) and what you might achieve in a private sale.

It’s always a good idea to check current price guides (like those from PCGS, NGC, or the Greysheet) for the most up-to-date market information.