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The 1847 Large Cent is an important and historical coin in the early United States numismatic series. Minted by the U.S. Mint, the 1847 Large Cent is part of the classic series that was struck from the late 18th century through the 1850s. These coins were part of the U.S. Mint’s efforts to create a stable and recognizable currency system for the young nation. The Large Cent was introduced in 1793 as part of a set of coinage reforms that included various denominations, including the half cent, cent, and larger denominations. The design and size of the Large Cent evolved over time, and the 1847 issue is one of the key dates within the series. The 1847 Large Cent is often considered a key date due to its historical significance and relatively lower mintage compared to other years in the series.
The design of the 1847 Large Cent is based on the famous Liberty Head design, which was first introduced in 1839. The obverse of the coin features a bust of Liberty facing to the right, with the word “LIBERTY” inscribed on her headband. The classic design, created by artist Christian Gobrecht, reflects the ideals of freedom and independence that were central to the United States’ founding. Surrounding Liberty is the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” with the year of minting, 1847, located just below her neck. The reverse side of the coin showcases a wreath of corn, wheat, and other agricultural symbols, which was a design motif often used on coins of this period. At the center of the wreath is the value “1 CENT,” with the inscription “E PLURIBUS UNUM” above it. The wreath design emphasizes the agricultural roots of the nation, as farming was a major part of the economy in the 19th century.
The 1847 Large Cent was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the only mint in operation at the time for coin production. The Philadelphia Mint was responsible for producing coins for the entire United States, and it played a central role in shaping the nation’s coinage. The mintage of the 1847 Large Cent was approximately 7.4 million pieces, which is considered a relatively low mintage compared to other years in the series. This makes the 1847 Large Cent a key date in the series, as it is less common than many of the other Large Cent issues from the 1830s and 1840s. Despite the relatively low mintage, the 1847 Large Cent remains an important piece for collectors due to its design and historical context.
The coin’s condition is a key factor in determining its value. The 1847 Large Cent in VF20BN (Very Fine 20, Brown) condition, as certified by NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation), represents a coin that shows clear signs of wear but still retains much of its original detail. Coins in Very Fine condition exhibit moderate to heavy wear on the high points of the design, such as the hair and the wreath, but the details of the coin are still discernible. In the case of the 1847 Large Cent, the Liberty bust is still clear, although the fine details of her hair and drapery are softened by wear. The coin’s date and lettering are visible but may show some wear and are not as sharp as those found on higher-grade examples. The reverse side of the coin, with the wreath and “1 CENT” inscription, also exhibits wear, but the overall design is still identifiable. A coin in VF20BN condition is a well-preserved example of the 1847 Large Cent, suitable for collectors who are looking for a piece that offers a balance of historical authenticity and affordability.
The designation “BN” on the certification indicates that the coin is a brown color variant, meaning it has developed a natural patina over time. This is typical for copper coins of this age, as copper oxidizes and changes color when exposed to air and other environmental factors. The brown patina is often a sign of the coin’s age and history, and many collectors prefer the original brown color to the more reddish or orange-toned appearance that can occur with cleaning or improper storage. While the condition of the coin may not be as pristine as higher-grade examples, the brown patina is still considered an attractive feature that adds to the coin’s historical appeal. Coins in this condition are often more accessible to collectors compared to higher-grade examples, which can command significantly higher prices.
The 1847 Large Cent holds historical importance as part of the broader context of U.S. coinage and economic history. In the 1840s, the United States was transitioning from its early, fragile economy into a more industrialized and cohesive nation. Coins like the Large Cent, which were used for everyday transactions, reflect the economic landscape of the time. The coins also speak to the nation’s efforts to establish a standard currency and to reflect its values, such as liberty, agricultural productivity, and unity. Collecting these coins provides insight into the early days of U.S. currency and the development of the nation’s identity through its coinage. The 1847 Large Cent is particularly interesting because it represents a time of change in both the coin’s design and the national economy.
The value of the 1847 Large Cent in VF20BN condition is largely determined by its rarity, historical significance, and the quality of its preservation. While the mintage of 7.4 million coins may seem relatively high in comparison to other coins, it is still considered a scarce issue due to the age of the coin and the wear it has experienced over time. Coins that are well-preserved in lower grades like VF20BN are highly valued by collectors who seek to fill gaps in their collections with historically important pieces. As one of the most iconic coins of early U.S. coinage, the 1847 Large Cent represents an essential part of American history and is a popular item among collectors of early copper coins.
In conclusion, the 1847 Large Cent in VF20BN condition, certified by NGC, is an important and historical coin that holds value for collectors. Its design, featuring the iconic Liberty Head and agricultural motifs, is representative of the values and identity of the United States in the mid-19th century. The mintage of the coin and its condition contribute to its desirability and collectability. The 1847 Large Cent serves as a tangible connection to the early days of the U.S. Mint and the development of the nation's coinage system. For collectors, owning an example of this coin is not just about the intrinsic value of the metal, but also the piece of history it represents.