The Large Cent was one of the earliest coin styles produced by the United States Mint, with a diameter similar to that of a modern half-dollar. Made from 100% copper and weighing between 10 and 13 grams, each Large Cent was valued at 1/100th of a dollar, much like today’s penny. Between 1793 and 1857, six distinct varieties of Large Cents were minted, with the exception of 1815. These varieties include: Flowing Hair, Liberty Cap, Draped Bust, Classic Head, Coronet Liberty Head, and Braided Hair Liberty Head.
The Continental Congress issued paper currency known as “Continentals” during the Revolutionary War, as a means to fund the war effort. This currency experienced rapid depreciation after the war, leading to a lack of confidence in paper money. The young nation soon realized the need for a national coinage system. In response, the US Constitution granted Congress the exclusive authority to coin money. The Coinage Act of 1792 followed, establishing the United States Mint and authorizing the production of gold, silver, and copper coins. The first Large Cent was minted in 1793 alongside the Half Cent, and these copper coins continued in production until 1857.
Image source: National Numismatic Collection, National Museum of American History
Large Cents underwent several design changes, providing collectors with the rewarding challenge of acquiring each variety. Here are the six primary designs:
The first Large Cent featured the “Flowing Hair” design created by Henry Voigt. Despite being the first official US coin minted by the government, the design faced criticism. The depiction of Lady Liberty was deemed unattractive, and the chains on the reverse suggested support for slavery. Adam Eckfeldt later redesigned Lady Liberty and replaced the chain with a wreath, but the public reception remained lukewarm.
To address the criticism, Mint Director David Rittenhouse hired Joseph Wright to modify the design. Wright’s “Liberty Cap” design featured Liberty’s hair restyled and ornamented with a Phrygian cap emblematic of freedom. He also replaced the reverse with a laurel wreath.
In 1796, Robert Scot redesigned the Large Cent, featuring a bust of Lady Liberty with loose drapery at the neckline, drawing attention to the bosom area. This “Draped Bust” design also included a ribbon in Liberty’s hair and an olive wreath on the reverse.
Under new Mint Director Robert Patterson, John Reich redesigned the Large Cent, resulting in the “Classic Head” design. Liberty now faced right and wore a headband inscribed with “LIBERTY,” surrounded by 13 stars representing the original colonies.
The War of 1812 caused a disruption in copper planchet supply, halting Large Cent production in 1815. When production resumed, the new “Coronet” design featured a more mature Lady Liberty, leading to the nickname “Matron Head.”
In 1839, Christian Gobrecht redesigned the Large Cent again, giving Lady Liberty a more youthful and slimmer appearance. This “Braided Hair” design received a warmer reception from the public.
Large Cents are highly desirable among collectors, with values ranging from $20 to $5,000 depending on condition and variety. Some rarer varieties have been valued at over $50,000. Here are some notable examples:
Collecting Large Cents is a rewarding journey into America’s numismatic history. At Bullion Hunters, we provide access to a wide range of collectible coins and expert advice to help you build a valuable collection. Visit Bullion Hunters or contact us today to explore our inventory and start your journey into the fascinating world of Large Cents.