Selling or Buying United States Large Cents (1793-1857)

The First American Cents

The United States Mint struck its first cents in 1793, establishing a copper coinage that would continue for sixty-four years. These early pieces, struck on copper planchets weighing 13.48 grams, represented the young nation's attempt to create a stable monetary system. The first design featured a Chain reverse that lasted only months before public criticism forced a change.

The Chain cent of 1793 displayed fifteen links representing the states, but critics found the imagery too reminiscent of slavery. By mid-1793, engraver Joseph Wright had prepared new dies featuring a Wreath reverse. The flowing hair Liberty head remained on the obverse, though the overall design was refined.

Liberty Cap Design

Late in 1793, the Mint introduced the Liberty Cap cent. This design showed Liberty wearing a cap on a pole, a symbol borrowed from classical antiquity. The cap appeared both with the pole and without it in different varieties. John Smith Gardner is credited with much of this design work, though documentation from the period remains sparse.

The Liberty Cap design continued through 1796. During this period, the Mint struggled with consistent production. Planchet preparation was crude, and many coins show adjustment marks where excess copper was filed away to achieve proper weight.

Draped Bust and Classic Head Types

Robert Scot's Draped Bust design appeared in 1796 and ran until 1807. The obverse showed Liberty with flowing hair and classical drapery, while the reverse maintained the wreath and denomination format. This design coincided with the Mint's move to more sophisticated production methods, though quality remained inconsistent.

The Classic Head design by John Reich debuted in 1808. Reich's work represented a marked improvement in artistic execution. Liberty wore a ribbon inscribed "LIBERTY" in her hair, and the overall design showed greater attention to detail than previous efforts. This type continued through 1814.

Coronet and Braided Hair Cents

Christian Gobrecht designed the Coronet (or Matron Head) cent that began production in 1816. The design featured Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed with "LIBERTY." The reverse showed the denomination within a wreath, continuing the established format. This design saw numerous modifications during its run through 1839, particularly to Liberty's hair and facial features.

The final large cent design, the Braided Hair type, appeared in 1840. Also attributed to Gobrecht, this design showed Liberty with braided hair and a more youthful appearance. The type continued until 1857, when the large cent was discontinued in favor of the smaller Flying Eagle cent.

Collecting Large Cents Today

Large cents remain popular among collectors in Morris County and beyond. The series offers varieties within each type, from the different hair styles on Draped Bust cents to the numerous date and letter size variations on later issues. Condition varies widely, as these coins circulated heavily during their time.

We maintain detailed records of 158 large cent auction results, tracking market patterns and variety identification. Each coin requires careful examination to determine its specific type and any notable characteristics. Many collectors discover large cents in old collections or estate situations without realizing their significance.

If you've found a large cent or inherited a collection, call 973-378-1690 for a free evaluation or stop by 13 West Main St, Mendham NJ.