1862 1C MS68 Certification #39662404, PCGS #2064

Stacks Bowsers Auction Listing (June 2020): Here is a magnificent 1862 Indian cent, from the copper-nickel, Oak Wreath series of 1861 through 1864. The surfaces are essentially flawless, with subtle prooflike reflectivity in the fields and undisturbed frosty texture across the devices. A thin die crack is noted at the tip of Liberty's bust and through the left reverse wreath, but the devices remain nicely defined for the issue. The attractive surfaces are golden-tan with subtle accents of deeper bronze patina throughout. A small area of dark toning on Liberty's hair ribbon will help in tracing this superior piece through future cabinets. This is the sole finest 1862 cent graded by PCGS or NGC, and is tied with the very finest known across the entire Indian cent series. It is an ideal candidate for a high-end PCGS Registry Set of Indian cents or 19th century type coins. It simply cannot be improved upon.

David Hall

The 1862 is one of the two most common 1860-64 copper-nickel Indian cents (the other is the 1863). The 1862 is slightly rarer than the 1863 in mint state condition, but the 1863 is rarer in Gem MS65 or better. The 1862 is usually well-struck and luster is often excellent. The typical mint state examples have a bright, light frosty luster.