1866 Indian Cent. Snow-5a. Repunched Date. MS-64 RD (PCGS).This is a significant coin for the Indian cent enthusiast, offering both absolute scarcity and condition rarity. Razor sharp in strike, both sides also display a satiny texture that suggests an even higher grade. Predominantly medium orange in color, blushes of iridescent rose are also evident on both sides, especially in the center of the reverse. From a mintage of 9,826,500 circulation strikes, many examples of which were redeemed and melted during the 1870s when the Act of 1871 authorized the Mint to dispose of stockpiles of copper, copper-nickel, bronze and nickel coins that had become a burden to banks. Scarce in lower grades and rare at all levels of full Red preservation, the 1866 is eagerly sought by advanced collectors.PCGS Population: 37; 39 finer in this category (MS-66 RD finest).From the Beasley Collection.
