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The US Large Cent 1796 Draped Bust Good S-75 is a significant numismatic artifact that provides a detailed view into the late 18th-century monetary history of the United States. The large cent, one of the earliest denominations of US currency, reflects the economic conditions and monetary policies of the time. Minted in 1796, the Draped Bust Large Cent represents an important era in American coinage history, showcasing the transition in design and technology during this period. The S-75 refers to a specific die variety identified by numismatists, adding another layer of interest and rarity to this coin.
The Draped Bust design, created by Chief Engraver Robert Scot, was introduced in 1796, replacing the earlier Liberty Cap design. This design was inspired by a portrait of Liberty by artist Gilbert Stuart, with Liberty depicted in a more classical and elegant style. The obverse of the 1796 Large Cent displays the head of Liberty facing right, adorned with flowing hair and draped with a cloth, giving the design its name. The date "1796" is positioned below Liberty's bust, marking the coin's year of mintage. Thirteen stars surround the bust, representing the original thirteen colonies, though the exact number of stars varied between issues.
The reverse of the coin showcases the denomination "ONE CENT" within a wreath of laurel, symbolizing victory and prosperity. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircles the wreath, emphasizing the coin's national origin. Below the wreath, the fraction "1/100" is inscribed, indicating the coin's value in relation to a dollar. The design is simple yet elegant, reflecting the high standards of craftsmanship at the US Mint during this period. The use of laurel wreaths and classical motifs underscores the nation’s aspirations and its connection to classical ideals of governance and society.
The mintage of the 1796 Draped Bust Large Cent was relatively low, with approximately 363,375 coins produced. This production figure reflects the early struggles and limited capacity of the US Mint in its formative years. Large cents were essential in the local economy, providing a stable medium of exchange for goods and services. The low mintage numbers contribute to the coin's rarity and desirability among collectors today, particularly in lower grades like Good (G). The S-75 variety is one of the many die pairings used in 1796, adding another layer of collectability to this coin.
The condition of the 1796 Draped Bust Large Cent described as Good (G) indicates that the coin exhibits significant wear from circulation. In Good condition, the details of Liberty's head and the wreath on the reverse are worn but still discernible. The inscriptions and date remain readable, although much of the finer detail has been lost. Despite the wear, Good-grade coins are valued by collectors for their historical authenticity and the stories they tell about the coin's journey through history. The wear on these coins speaks to their extensive use in everyday commerce during the late 18th century, highlighting their practical role in the economy.
The production of the large cent coin was authorized by the Coinage Act of 1792, which established the US Mint and set the standards for American coinage. Large cents were minted from 1793 to 1857, when they were discontinued due to their diminishing use and the changing economic conditions of the time. The large size and low value of the coin made it increasingly impractical as the nation moved towards a more centralized and standardized monetary system. By the mid-19th century, smaller and more convenient coins had become necessary to meet the needs of an expanding economy.
An interesting historical context of the 1796 Draped Bust Large Cent is its connection to the early years of the United States under the Constitution. The coin was minted during the presidency of George Washington, who served from 1789 to 1797. Washington's administration was marked by significant events such as the establishment of the US Mint, the ratification of the Bill of Rights, and the development of a national bank. The coin, therefore, not only serves as a piece of currency but also as a witness to a formative period in American history. Its production and circulation reflect the economic activities and daily transactions of the time, providing a tangible link to the past.
In conclusion, the US Large Cent 1796 Draped Bust Good S-75 serves as both a historical artifact and a numismatic treasure, offering valuable insights into the late 18th-century American coinage. Minted with historical significance, this coin represents a piece of numismatic interest that embodies the cultural heritage and economic practices of the early United States. Collectors and history enthusiasts alike value this coin for its aesthetic appeal, its role in documenting America's rich historical narrative, and its contribution to understanding the nation's economic history. The 1796 Draped Bust Large Cent stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of early American coinage, preserving a piece of history that continues to fascinate and inform.