The fascinating history and collectibility of the large cent

Are you ready for an exciting journey into the world of coin collecting with your family? Large cents in the United States are a thrilling area of numismatics (coin collection) with a captivating history. This guide will explore the specifications of U.S. large cents, various types, tips on building your collection, and reference prices. Let's get started!

The history of large cents

The United States large cent was an official U.S. coin with a face value of 1/100 of a dollar, first minted in 1793. Its production lasted over six decades until 1857 when it was replaced by our current one-cent coin, the penny. These coins had a distinctive diameter of approximately 1 ⅛ inches and were minted exclusively in Philadelphia. Containing twice the copper of half cents, the large cent was heavy by comparison.

Unique designs and their historical significance

Several different large-cent designs were minted. Each large cent has a unique story to tell, capturing the essence of America's early coinage and reflecting its evolving ideals and artistry. Let's explore these designs and their historical significance.

Flowing Hair

The Flowing Hair cents, first minted in 1793, represent the earliest stages of American coinage with a unique artistic style that reflects the fledgling nation's burgeoning identity.

Designed by Henry Voigt, the Flowing Hair cents were among the first coins produced by the newly established U.S. Mint. The design featured Lady Liberty with flowing hair, meant to symbolize freedom and the youthful spirit of the new nation.

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However, the Flowing Hair coin, showcasing thirteen interlocking chains on the reverse, garnered criticism for its perceived allusion to slavery and unappealing obverse, leading to its quick replacement with a wreath design.

Liberty Cap

Following the Flowing Hair design, the Liberty Cap cents (1793-1796) presented a more refined depiction of Liberty. Created by Joseph Wright, this design showcased Liberty with a Phrygian cap on a pole, a symbol of freedom and the pursuit of liberty. This cap had historical significance, being associated with freed slaves in ancient Rome, thus reinforcing the nation's values of liberty and freedom during its formative years.

Draped Bust

The Draped Bust cents, introduced in 1796 and continuing until 1807, reflected a shift toward a more classical and refined artistry. Designed by Robert Scot, this series depicted a more mature Liberty, encapsulated in a neoclassical style inspired by contemporary European art. The reverse side featured an olive branch.

Classic Head

In 1808, the Classic Head cents emerged, carrying forward a more modern and simplistic approach to coin design. Crafted by John Reich, the Classic Head cents emphasized clarity and elegance with a subtle redesign of Liberty. It’s named “Classic Head” because of the headband or fillet Liberty wears, also donned by male athletes in ancient Greece.  

Matron Head

Introduced in 1816, the Matron Head cents retained the classical elements but featured a more matronly representation of Liberty – hence the “matron” name. This portrayal aligned with the era's cultural values, emphasizing respectability and moral virtues. The Matron Head design is often seen as a reflection of the era’s societal norms and expectations (Wikipedia).

Braided Hair

The final design before the large cent was discontinued was the Braided Hair cent (1839-1857). These coins, designed by Christian Gobrecht, displayed intricate details and a more youthful look for Liberty. 

More than a decade later, a U.S. Mint employee reportedly struck several more large cents marked 1868 for collection purposes. Struck in copper and nickel, only 12 or so of these final yet unofficial large cents are known to exist. 

Each large cent design possesses unique characteristics and historical significance, making many of them highly prized by collectors. 

Value and collectibility

Value

The value of large cents varies depending on their type, condition, and rarity. As with any collectible item, the better the condition and rarer the coin, the more valuable it is.

Here are some approximate reference prices for various types of large cents in good condition:

• Flowing Hair: $5,000 to $125,000+

• Liberty Cap: $50-$100 with some worth as much as $8,000 or more

• Draped Bust: Up to $5,000 for the rarest

• Classic Head: $165

• Matron Head: $35-$60

• Braided Hair: $120 and up for rarer coins

These prices can vary greatly depending on the rarity and condition of a specific coin. It's always best to consult with a professional and do thorough research before buying.

Collectibility

Large cents are highly collectible due to their historical significance, unique designs, and limited production period. Some collectors focus on acquiring one of each design type, while others aim to collect every year and mint mark combination.

Rare finds

The history of large cents was not without challenges. The War of 1812 caused significant planchet shortages, halting production in 1815 (Wikipedia, Coin Collecting Guide for Beginners). This scarcity has made these coins from 1815 highly sought after by collectors today.

Some large cents are especially rare and valuable, such as the 1793 Chain cent, the 1793 Wreath cent, the 1796 Draped Bust cent, the intriguing 1804 "restrike" cent, and the 1881 double-date Braided large cent. These coins can fetch high prices in the numismatic market, making them valuable additions to any collection.

The charm of large cents

Beyond their economic value, large cents possess a historical charm. Their scarcity and unique designs add to their allure. Organizations like the Early American Coppers Club offer dedicated resources and camaraderie for collectors and researchers.

Tips for building your collection

Whether you're an experienced collector or just starting, here are a few tips to help you build your large cent collection:

• Do your research: Familiarize yourself with the different types, dates, and variations of large cents before making any purchases.

• Set a budget: Decide how much you're willing to spend on your collection and stick to it.

• Shop with reputable dealers: Look for certified, graded coins from established dealers to ensure authenticity and quality.

• Consider condition: Higher-grade coins will hold their value better and may appreciate over time.

• Mix it up: Don't limit yourself to just one type or era of large cents. Consider adding some variety to your collection.

Start your collecting journey

Collecting large cents can be a captivating hobby, providing opportunities to learn about American history and potentially discover valuable pieces. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a beginner, the world of large cents offers a rewarding journey of exploration and delight for the whole family.

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This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.