1908-s Small Cents Indian Head ANACS G-4

Discover a genuine piece of American numismatic history with this 1908-S Small Cent Indian Head coin, professionally graded by ANACS as G-4. This classic U.S. one-cent piece represents one of the final years of the beloved Indian Head cent series, which ran from 1859 to 1909. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, the 1908-S Indian Head cent holds special significance for collectors due to its status as the first Indian Head cent ever produced at a branch mint outside of Philadelphia.

The Indian Head Small Cent, often affectionately called the "Indian Penny," remains one of the most iconic designs in American coinage. Designed by James Barton Longacre, the obverse features a striking portrait of Liberty wearing a Native American headdress, while the reverse displays a simple yet elegant laurel wreath surrounding the denomination. Our 1908-S specimen has been carefully evaluated and encapsulated by ANACS, one of the most trusted names in third-party coin grading, ensuring both authenticity and accurate grade assessment.

In Good-4 (G-4) condition, this coin displays the characteristic wear patterns expected for its grade. The major design elements remain visible, with Liberty's profile and headdress showing moderate flattening while still retaining clear definition. The date "1908" and the "S" mintmark are fully legible, which is particularly important for this issue as the San Francisco mintmark is a key identifier for collectors. The laurel wreath on the reverse shows appropriate circulation wear but maintains its overall structure and appeal for a coin of this grade.

Collectors and investors alike seek out the 1908-S Indian Head cent not only for its historical importance but also for its relative scarcity compared to Philadelphia-minted counterparts. The introduction of branch mint coinage for the Indian Head cent series in 1908 created several key dates that are essential for completing date-and-mintmark sets. This particular example offers an affordable entry point into collecting these historic small cents while maintaining the integrity and eye appeal that serious numismatists demand.

Whether you're building a complete set of Indian Head cents, expanding your collection of San Francisco mint coinage, or simply looking to own a tangible piece of early 20th-century American history, this ANACS-certified 1908-S Indian Head cent represents an excellent choice. Each coin has been meticulously examined by experts, authenticated, and sealed in a protective holder that preserves its condition while allowing for easy viewing and display.

Coin Specifications

• Year: 1908
• Mint: San Francisco (S)
• Denomination: 1 Cent
• Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
• Diameter: 19.00 mm
• Weight: 3.11 grams
• Designer: James Barton Longacre
• Edge: Plain
• Grade: ANACS G-4 (Good 4)
• Certification: ANACS Certified

Historical Background

The Indian Head cent was introduced in 1859 during a time of significant change in American coinage. The series replaced the large Flying Eagle cent and would become one of the longest-running small cent designs in U.S. Mint history. The 1908-S represents a pivotal moment in the series as it was the first Indian Head cent struck at the San Francisco Mint, created in response to growing demand for one-cent coins in the western United States.

Production of the 1908-S Indian Head cent totaled 1,115,000 pieces, making it significantly scarcer than its Philadelphia counterpart. This relatively low mintage, combined with the coin's historical importance as the first branch mint Indian cent, has made it a perennial favorite among collectors. The coin was minted during the final years of Theodore Roosevelt's presidency, a period that would soon see the introduction of the Lincoln cent in 1909, ending the Indian Head design after a remarkable 50-year run.

Many of these coins circulated extensively throughout the western states, explaining why well-preserved examples are increasingly difficult to find. The G-4 grade offered here represents an authentic circulated example that has survived over 115 years of American history, from the final years of the American frontier through two World Wars and into the modern era.

Numismatic enthusiasts particularly value the 1908-S for its role in completing either date sets or full date-and-mintmark collections of Indian Head cents. The distinctive "S" mintmark located below the wreath on the reverse makes this issue easily identifiable and highly collectible. ANACS certification provides additional peace of mind, guaranteeing that you are purchasing an authentic, properly graded example of this classic American rarity.

This 1908-S Indian Head Small Cent offers both historical significance and numismatic appeal, making it an outstanding addition to any collection. Its warm copper tones, historic design, and certified authenticity combine to create a truly compelling piece of American coinage history that can be enjoyed for generations to come.