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The 1839 Braided Hair Large Cent, characterized by its "Head of 1840" design, represents an intriguing and transitional period in early American numismatics. The Braided Hair series began in 1839 and continued until 1857, featuring a design that was introduced to modernize the appearance of U.S. copper coinage. The 1839 issue is especially notable due to the "Head of 1840" design, which was a transitional style meant to address issues in the earlier designs and reflect a more contemporary aesthetic.
The obverse of the 1839 Braided Hair Large Cent features the portrait of Lady Liberty with her hair styled in a braided fashion, a departure from the earlier designs. This change was part of an effort to provide a more detailed and refined image of Liberty. The portrait is surrounded by a circular inscription that reads “LIBERTY,” with the date “1839” prominently displayed below the bust. This year marks the introduction of the Braided Hair design, which was meant to be more detailed and artistically advanced compared to its predecessors. The coin’s edge is bordered by a series of stars, which symbolize the states of the Union at the time, providing both decorative and symbolic elements to the design.
The reverse side of the coin features a design that includes a large, centrally located wreath composed of agricultural elements such as corn, wheat, and cotton. This wreath encircles the inscription “ONE CENT,” signifying the coin’s denomination. The choice of design elements on the reverse reflects the agricultural emphasis of the period, highlighting the importance of farming and agriculture to the American economy. The wreath is surrounded by a border of small stars, adding to the overall decorative appeal and emphasizing the coin’s value.
The minting of the 1839 Braided Hair Large Cent took place at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the primary facility responsible for producing most of the United States' coinage during this period. Philadelphia's role as the primary minting location was crucial in ensuring the smooth production and distribution of coinage across the nation. The 1839 issue is part of a broader series that sought to modernize and standardize U.S. coinage in response to evolving economic and artistic trends.
Regarding mintage, the 1839 Braided Hair Large Cent had a relatively limited production compared to some other years in the series. While precise figures are difficult to confirm, the coin’s lower mintage contributes to its desirability among collectors. The transition to the Braided Hair design marked a shift in the U.S. Mint's approach to coin design, and the 1839 issue is particularly valued for its historical significance in this transition.
In Very Good (VG) condition, the 1839 Braided Hair Large Cent shows considerable wear, but the main design elements are still discernible. The portrait of Lady Liberty retains some of its defining features, although the finer details have been worn down. The inscription "LIBERTY" and the date "1839" are present but may be somewhat worn and less distinct. On the reverse, the wreath and the denomination “ONE CENT” are still recognizable, but the clarity of these details has diminished due to wear. Despite the wear, the overall design remains intact, allowing collectors to appreciate the historical and artistic significance of the coin.
Overall, the 1839 Braided Hair Large Cent with the "Head of 1840" design in Very Good condition provides valuable insight into the evolution of American coinage during the early 19th century. Its historical importance, coupled with its distinctive design features and limited mintage, makes it a noteworthy piece for collectors and enthusiasts of early U.S. numismatics. The coin serves as a tangible link to the era's artistic and economic changes, reflecting the ongoing development of American coin design and production.