US Large Cent 1816 Coronet Head Good

The US Large Cent 1816 Coronet Head in Good+ condition is a notable example of early 19th-century American coinage. This coin is part of the Coronet Head series, which marked a significant transition in the design of the Large Cent following the end of the War of 1812. The 1816 Large Cent, with its distinctive design and historical context, represents a period of renewal and economic recovery for the United States, making it a valuable piece for collectors and historians alike.

The 1816 Large Cent features the Coronet Head design, which was introduced as part of an effort to modernize American coinage. The obverse of the coin depicts Liberty wearing a coronet, or crown, inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." The portrait is styled in a classical manner, reflecting the neoclassical influences that were popular in the early 19th century. Liberty's hair is arranged in soft curls and pulled back, giving the portrait a dignified and elegant appearance. In Good+ condition, the obverse design is visible but shows significant wear, with the details of Liberty’s hair and coronet softened but still recognizable.

The reverse of the 1816 Large Cent features a wreath of laurel and oak surrounding the denomination "ONE CENT." The wreath is a symbol of victory and honor, while the oak represents strength and endurance. This design choice was intended to convey the ideals and aspirations of the young American nation. The reverse also includes the legend "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," underscoring the coin’s role as a representation of national unity. In Good+ condition, the reverse design is discernible, though wear has flattened some of the finer details and the overall appearance is smoother compared to higher grades.

Minted at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1816 Large Cent was produced during a time of economic adjustment following the War of 1812. The Philadelphia Mint, established in 1792, was the primary minting facility for the early U.S. coinage and played a crucial role in the production of various denominations. The 1816 Large Cent was struck in large quantities to meet the needs of commerce as the country recovered from wartime disruptions. The mintage for the 1816 Large Cent is estimated to be around 1,100,000 pieces, indicating that the coin was widely circulated during its time.

In Good+ condition, the 1816 Coronet Head Large Cent exhibits notable wear from circulation, which has impacted the clarity of its design elements. The coin’s surface shows signs of handling, such as scratches and dings, which have contributed to the overall smoothness of the details. Despite these imperfections, the coin retains its historical significance and the essential features of the Coronet Head design are still discernible. The Good+ grade reflects a balance between historical authenticity and the visible impact of circulation wear.

The Coronet Head series, including the 1816 Large Cent, was part of a broader effort to modernize and refine American coinage. The introduction of the Coronet Head design represented a shift in artistic direction and a response to public demands for more contemporary designs. This coin serves as an important piece in understanding the evolution of U.S. currency and the artistic trends of the early 19th century.

Overall, the US Large Cent 1816 Coronet Head in Good+ condition is a significant collectible for numismatists and history enthusiasts. Its design, minting details, and historical context contribute to its importance as a representation of early American coinage. The coin’s wear and condition provide a tangible connection to the past, offering insights into the economic and artistic developments of the time. As a piece of early American numismatic history, the 1816 Large Cent is a valuable addition to any collection focused on the formative years of U.S. currency.

• Denomination: N/A
• Year: 1816
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