US Large Cent 1817 Coronet Head 13 Stars Good

The US Large Cent 1817 Coronet Head 13 Stars in Good condition is an important piece of early American coinage that represents a fascinating era in the history of U.S. currency. Minted during a time of significant change and development in the young Republic, this coin offers a window into the early 19th century, reflecting both the artistic style and economic conditions of the period.

The 1817 Large Cent is part of the Coronet Head series, which succeeded the Classic Head design. This series was introduced to update and refresh the appearance of American coinage. The Coronet Head design, created by engraver John Reich, features a more detailed and sophisticated portrait of Liberty. On the obverse of the coin, Liberty is depicted with a coronet or diadem on her head, symbolizing the country's enduring ideals and aspirations. The inscription "LIBERTY" appears on the coronet, reinforcing the theme of freedom and democratic values. In Good condition, the details of Liberty’s portrait are somewhat worn but still discernible, providing a glimpse into the artistry of early American coinage.

The reverse of the 1817 Large Cent features a design that complements the obverse while also incorporating elements of symbolism and national pride. It displays a wreath of laurel and oak surrounding the denomination "ONE CENT." The laurel wreath signifies victory and honor, while the oak wreath symbolizes strength and endurance. The surrounding legend "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" emphasizes the coin's role as a representation of national unity and identity. In Good condition, the reverse design shows considerable wear, with the wreath and inscription partially visible but softened by circulation.

The 1817 Large Cent was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the primary facility for producing U.S. coinage during this period. The Mint, established in 1792, played a crucial role in the early American economy, producing coins for everyday transactions and economic stability. The 1817 Large Cent was produced in significant quantities, with an estimated mintage of 1,000,000 pieces. This high mintage reflects the widespread use of the coin in commerce and its importance in the daily lives of Americans during the early 19th century.

In Good condition, the 1817 Coronet Head Large Cent exhibits visible signs of wear from circulation. The details of the obverse portrait and reverse wreath are present but have been significantly worn down, with the coin’s surface showing signs of handling such as scratches, dings, and smoothing. Despite these imperfections, the coin retains its historical significance and provides valuable insights into the design and usage of early American coinage.

The Coronet Head series, including the 1817 Large Cent, was part of a broader effort to modernize and improve U.S. coin designs. The introduction of the Coronet Head was intended to address public demand for more refined and artistic representations of Liberty, while also updating the coin’s imagery to reflect contemporary tastes. The 1817 issue serves as a key example of these design changes and offers collectors and historians a tangible connection to the period.

Overall, the US Large Cent 1817 Coronet Head 13 Stars 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 highlight its use and circulation, providing a valuable piece of history that captures the essence of the early 19th century in the United States.

• Denomination: N/A
• Year: 1817
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