1907 Indian Head Penny Value: What It's Worth Today (Collector's Guide)
Discover how much a 1907 Indian Head penny is worth. Learn about condition grading, errors, and factors that determine your coin's value from $2 to over $1,000.
By Appraisily TeamLast updated November 9, 2023
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<span>Introduction to the 1907 Indian Head Penny</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">The 1907 Indian Head penny represents one of the final issues of this iconic American coin series that ran from 1859 to 1909. With its distinctive portrait of Lady Liberty wearing a Native American headdress, the coin has long been a favorite among collectors. But what determines its actual value in today’s market? Let’s explore what makes this historic penny worth anywhere from a few dollars to several hundred depending on its condition and characteristics.</div>
The 1907 Indian Head penny holds significant historical value as one of the last years of production before the introduction of the Lincoln cent in 1909. With over 108 million produced at the Philadelphia Mint, these pennies are relatively common, yet still highly collectible. Whether you’ve discovered one in an old collection, received it as an inheritance, or are actively seeking to add one to your numismatic portfolio, understanding its value is essential.
Key Facts About 1907 Indian Head Pennies
108,138,618
Mintage
Philadelphia only (no mint mark)
James B. Longacre
Designer
Chief Engraver 1844-1869
95% Copper, 5% Tin/Zinc
Composition
Bronze alloy
What Factors Determine a 1907 Indian Head Penny’s Value?
The value of your 1907 Indian Head penny depends on several key factors:
Condition/Grade - The better preserved your coin, the more valuable it will be
Color - Copper coins are categorized as Brown, Red-Brown, or Red
Strike Quality - How well the details were impressed during minting
Errors & Varieties - Any minting errors can significantly increase value
Provenance - History of ownership can add premium value
Let’s examine each of these factors in detail to help you determine what your 1907 penny might be worth.
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<span>1907 Indian Head Penny Grading & Condition</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">The condition of your 1907 Indian Head penny is the single most important factor in determining its value. Professional grading uses the Sheldon Scale, ranging from Poor (P-1) to Perfect Mint State (MS-70). For practical purposes, understanding a few key grade thresholds will help you estimate your coin’s value.</div>
Understanding Grade Categories for Indian Head Pennies
Good (G-4 to G-6): In this condition, major design elements are visible but heavily worn. The portrait’s features are flattened, and the headband may be barely visible. The lettering is readable but worn. Most 1907 pennies found in circulation fall into this category.
Fine (F-12 to F-15): More details appear in Liberty’s hair and the feathers in the headdress. The headband with “LIBERTY” shows some letters clearly. The reverse shows more defined details in the wreath.
Very Fine (VF-20 to VF-35): Most of the feather details are visible, and the headband clearly shows “LIBERTY.” The wreath on the reverse shows good detail.
Extremely Fine (EF-40 to EF-45): Only slight wear appears on the highest points. Almost all details are clear, with just minor flattening on the highest points of the design.
About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58): The coin shows very little wear, with just slight friction on the highest points. Most luster remains.
Mint State (MS-60 to MS-70): No wear from circulation, though quality ranges from coins with many marks (MS-60) to perfect specimens (MS-70). Few 1907 Indian Head pennies exist above MS-65.
1907 Indian Head Penny Value by Grade
Current market values as of 2023
Category
Price
Notes
Grade
Brown (BN)
Red-Brown (RB)
Red (RD)
Good (G-4)
$2 - $3
N/A
N/A
Fine (F-12)
$4 - $5
N/A
N/A
Very Fine (VF-20)
$7 - $10
N/A
N/A
Extremely Fine (EF-40)
$15 - $20
N/A
N/A
About Uncirculated (AU-50)
$25 - $35
$35 - $45
N/A
Mint State (MS-63)
$60 - $85
$95 - $120
$125 - $165
Mint State (MS-65)
$175 - $225
$275 - $350
$500 - $750
Proof
$180 - $250
$275 - $400
$900 - $1,950
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The Importance of Color for Copper Coins
The 1907 Indian Head penny’s original color was a bright reddish-orange when newly minted. Over time, copper naturally darkens through oxidation. Numismatists classify Indian Head pennies by three color designations:
Brown (BN): The most common, where the coin has darkened to a brown color
Red-Brown (RB): Showing a mix of original red color and brown toning
Red (RD): Retaining most of the original bright copper color, rare for 1907 pennies
Red specimens command significant premiums, especially in higher grades, as they represent extraordinarily well-preserved examples of these historic coins.
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<span>1907 Indian Head Penny Key Features</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Understanding the distinctive features of the 1907 Indian Head penny helps in both identification and authentication. This design, created by James B. Longacre, remained largely unchanged throughout its 50-year run, making it one of America’s most recognizable historic coins.</div>
Obverse (Front) Design Features
Portrait: Lady Liberty wearing a Native American feathered headdress
Headband: Contains the word “LIBERTY”
Inscription: “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” around the rim
Date: “1907” at the bottom
No Mint Mark: All 1907 Indian Head pennies were struck at Philadelphia
Reverse (Back) Design Features
Denomination: “ONE CENT” inside a wreath of oak and laurel
Wreath: Tied with a ribbon at the bottom
Shield: Small shield at the top of the wreath
Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc (bronze)
Weight: 3.11 grams
Diameter: 19.05 mm
Authenticity Check for 1907 Indian Head Pennies
Use this checklist to verify your coin's authenticity
LIBERTY is visible in the headband (may be worn on circulated coins)
Design shows appropriate style for 1907 (compared to reference images)
Weight is approximately 3.11 grams (can vary slightly with wear)
Diameter measures 19.05 mm (penny-sized)
Metal appears to be copper/bronze (not magnetic)
Details align with known design elements (no unusual features)
1907 Indian Head Penny Proof Coins
Besides the regular strike pennies made for circulation, the Philadelphia Mint also produced a limited number of proof coins in 1907. These were specially struck with polished dies on polished planchets, creating coins with exceptional detail and mirror-like fields.
Key facts about 1907 proof Indian Head pennies:
Mintage: Only 1,475 proofs were struck
Characteristics: Mirror-like fields, sharp details, sometimes square edges
Value Range: $180-$1,950+ depending on condition and color
Rarity: Much rarer than business strikes, especially in Red designation
Proof coins were primarily made for collectors and presentation purposes, not for circulation. Their much lower mintage makes them significantly more valuable than regular strike pennies.
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<span>Rare 1907 Indian Head Penny Errors and Varieties</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">While the 1907 Indian Head penny doesn’t have major recognized varieties like some other years in the series, several error types can appear that significantly increase a coin’s value. Error coins result from mistakes in the minting process and are highly sought after by collectors for their uniqueness.</div>
Common Errors Found on 1907 Indian Head Pennies
Die Cracks: Raised lines on the coin surface caused by cracks in the die
Doubled Dies: Showing doubling of design elements due to multiple impressions from the die
Off-Center Strikes: When the coin blank was not properly centered during striking
Repunched Dates: Where the date was punched multiple times at slightly different positions
Clipped Planchets: Coins with a portion missing due to an error in cutting the blank
Lamination Errors: Flaws in the metal planchet causing layers to separate
Let’s look at some specific 1907 Indian Head penny errors and their approximate values:
1907 Indian Head Penny Error Values
Estimated values for common error types
Category
Price
Notes
Error Type
Description
Approximate Value
10-15% Off-Center Strike
Design is noticeably off-center but date still visible
$100 - $200
25%+ Off-Center Strike
Severely off-center but with visible date
$200 - $400
Repunched Date (RPD)
Date numbers show doubling from multiple punches
$50 - $150
Major Die Crack
Prominent raised line across important design elements
$25 - $100
Clipped Planchet
Missing portion of the coin due to improper cutting
$40 - $150
Doubled Die Obverse/Reverse
Noticeable doubling of design elements
$75 - $300+
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How to Identify Potential Errors
To spot possible errors on your 1907 Indian Head penny:
Use a magnifying glass (5x to 10x) to examine the coin closely
Check the date numbers for signs of repunching or doubling
Look at design elements for any doubling or unusual characteristics
Examine the rim for any irregularities or clips
Look for raised lines across the surface that might indicate die cracks
Remember that many apparent “errors” may simply be post-mint damage. Proper authentication by a professional is recommended for any coin you believe may be a valuable error.
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<span>Historical Context and Collectibility</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">The 1907 Indian Head penny was issued during Theodore Roosevelt’s presidency, a period of significant growth and change in the United States. Understanding the historical context enhances appreciation for these coins and can influence their collectibility and value.</div>
Historical Timeline: The 1907 Indian Head Penny in Context
1859
Indian Head Penny Introduction
James B. Longacre designs the Indian Head penny, which begins production
1864
Composition Change
Penny composition changes from copper-nickel to bronze (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc)
1907
Peak Production Era
Over 108 million pennies struck at Philadelphia during Theodore Roosevelt's presidency
1909
End of Series
Indian Head penny production ends, replaced by the Lincoln cent
1950s-1960s
Collecting Boom
Indian Head pennies become popular among collectors, driving prices upward
Present
Continued Appreciation
Values continue to rise, especially for high-grade and error specimens
Why Collectors Value the 1907 Indian Head Penny
Historical Significance: One of the last years of this iconic American design
Aesthetic Appeal: The distinctive portrait of Liberty in a Native American headdress
Series Completion: A key date for collectors completing an Indian Head penny set
Accessibility: Common enough to be affordable for beginning collectors
Investment Potential: Higher grades continue to appreciate in value
How to Sell Your 1907 Indian Head Penny
If you’ve determined that your 1907 Indian Head penny has significant value and you’re interested in selling, here are some options to consider:
Coin Dealers: Local or online coin dealers can offer immediate payment, though possibly below retail value
Auction Houses: Major auction houses like Heritage or Stack’s Bowers for rare, high-value specimens
Online Marketplaces: eBay, Amazon, or specialized coin marketplaces
Coin Shows: Events where collectors and dealers gather to buy, sell, and trade
Direct to Collectors: Through coin clubs or online forums
For pennies worth under $100, direct sales through online platforms may be most profitable. For valuable specimens worth hundreds or thousands, professional authentication through PCGS or NGC is recommended before selling through an auction house or high-end dealer.
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<span>Tips for Handling and Storing Your 1907 Indian Head Penny</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Proper handling and storage are essential to preserve the value of your 1907 Indian Head penny. Improper techniques can damage the coin’s surfaces and reduce its grade and value.</div>
Best Practices for Coin Care
Always hold coins by the edge, never touching the obverse or reverse surfaces
Use cotton gloves when handling uncirculated or high-grade specimens
Never clean your coins as this can significantly reduce their value
Store in proper coin holders - non-PVC flips, coin capsules, or album pages
Keep in a stable environment away from humidity and temperature fluctuations
Consider professional grading and encapsulation for valuable specimens
Warning: Many well-intentioned collectors have unwittingly damaged valuable coins through improper cleaning. Even gentle cleaning can remove the natural patina that develops over decades, significantly reducing a coin’s value to collectors.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1907 Indian Head Pennies
Is my 1907 penny worth anything?
Yes, all 1907 Indian Head pennies have value above their face value. At minimum, even in poor condition, they're worth around $1.50-$2. In average circulated condition (Good to Fine), they typically sell for $2-$5. Better condition coins can be worth significantly more, with uncirculated examples potentially worth $50-$750+ depending on grade and color. Proof specimens can exceed $1,000 in top condition.
Where is the mint mark on a 1907 Indian Head penny?
There is no mint mark on 1907 Indian Head pennies because they were all produced at the Philadelphia Mint, which did not use a mint mark at that time. All 108,138,618 pennies struck in 1907 came from the Philadelphia facility.
What makes a 1907 Indian Head penny rare?
While the 1907 Indian Head penny isn't rare in circulated grades due to its high mintage, certain factors can make individual specimens rare and valuable:
High-grade uncirculated examples (MS-65 or better)
Red (RD) color designation in uncirculated grades
Proof strikes (only 1,475 made)
Error coins with significant minting mistakes
Well-preserved examples with original surfaces
The rarest 1907 pennies are Red Proofs in perfect condition, which can sell for thousands of dollars.
How can I tell if my 1907 penny is a proof coin?
Proof 1907 Indian Head pennies have several distinctive characteristics:
Mirror-like fields (background areas) that are highly reflective
Sharper, more defined details than regular strikes
Often have square edges rather than rounded
May show "cartwheel" effect when rotated under light
Sometimes have a different color tone than circulation strikes
Because only 1,475 proofs were made, they’re quite rare. Professional authentication is recommended if you suspect you have a proof specimen.
What are the most valuable 1907 Indian Head penny errors?
The most valuable 1907 Indian Head penny errors include:
Major doubled die varieties showing clear doubling
Off-center strikes (with the date still visible)
Dramatic die cracks affecting major design elements
Wrong planchet errors (struck on a different denomination’s blank)
Multiple strike errors
Some significant errors can increase the value of an otherwise common 1907 penny to several hundred or even thousands of dollars. Dramatic errors are both rare and highly sought by collectors.
Should I clean my 1907 Indian Head penny to improve its appearance?
No, you should never clean your 1907 Indian Head penny (or any collectible coin). Cleaning removes the natural patina that has developed over decades and can leave hairline scratches that permanently damage the surface. Collectors and dealers can easily identify cleaned coins, which typically sell for 50-80% less than their uncleaned counterparts in the same grade. If your coin appears dirty or discolored, it's best to leave it as is and let a professional evaluate its true condition.
How do copper coin color designations affect the value of my 1907 penny?
Color designation significantly impacts the value of uncirculated 1907 Indian Head pennies:
Brown (BN): Most common, worth the least (though still valuable in high grades)
Red-Brown (RB): Shows some original mint red color, commands premium over brown
Red (RD): Retains most original mint color, most valuable and rarest designation
For example, in MS-65 grade, the same coin might be worth $200 with a Brown designation, $300 as Red-Brown, and $600+ as Red. The effect becomes even more pronounced in proof specimens, where Red examples can command more than three times the value of Brown examples.
Is professional grading worth it for my 1907 Indian Head penny?
Professional grading is generally worth the cost for 1907 Indian Head pennies in these situations:
Uncirculated examples (Mint State)
Proof specimens
Coins that appear to have significant errors
Specimens that retain original red color
Any coin you believe may be worth $100+
Professional grading from PCGS or NGC provides authentication, accurate grading, and protection in a sealed holder. For common circulated 1907 pennies in Good to Fine condition, the grading cost (typically $20-30+ per coin) likely exceeds any potential increase in value.
External Resources for 1907 Indian Head Penny Valuation
Conclusion: Is Your 1907 Indian Head Penny a Hidden Treasure?
The 1907 Indian Head penny represents an important piece of American numismatic history. While most examples in circulated condition are worth between $2 and $20, certain specimens—particularly those in high grades with original red color, proof strikes, or significant errors—can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Remember these key points about 1907 Indian Head penny values:
Condition is crucial - The difference between Good and Mint State can mean a 50x increase in value
Original color matters - Red specimens command significant premiums
Errors add value - Look for doubling, off-center strikes, and die cracks
Proofs are rare - Only 1,475 were made and they’re worth $180-$1,950+
Proper storage preserves value - Never clean coins and handle them carefully by the edges
Whether your 1907 Indian Head penny is worth a few dollars or several hundred, it remains a tangible connection to America’s past and a fascinating piece of numismatic history. If you believe you have a particularly valuable example, consider professional authentication and grading to maximize its potential value.
