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The 1843 U.S. Large Cent featuring the Braided Hair design with the Petite Head and Small Letters variety is an important and unique coin in early American numismatics. This coin was minted during a period of relative peace and economic growth in the United States, while also being a part of the Braided Hair series, which ran from 1839 to 1857. The 1843 coin, with its distinctive design and the special variety of the Petite Head and Small Letters, makes it particularly notable among collectors of early U.S. coinage. This variety stands out in the context of the broader series and is especially sought after by numismatists for its subtle but significant differences in its design elements.
The design of the 1843 Braided Hair Large Cent was created by Christian Gobrecht, the Chief Engraver at the U.S. Mint. The obverse features a left-facing portrait of Liberty, her hair intricately braided and flowing behind her. She is wearing a cap inscribed with the word “LIBERTY,” representing the nation’s founding ideals of freedom and independence. Surrounding Liberty’s bust are 13 stars, representing the original 13 colonies that formed the foundation of the United States. Beneath Liberty’s portrait is the date “1843,” marking the year the coin was struck. What makes this coin distinctive is the Petite Head variety, which features a smaller, more compact rendering of Liberty’s portrait compared to other coins in the Braided Hair series. The use of smaller letters in the inscriptions on the coin further distinguishes this variety, making it a unique and desirable piece for collectors. On the reverse, the coin features a wreath made of laurel and oak leaves, symbolizing strength and unity. The inscription "ONE CENT" is displayed inside the wreath, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" surrounding the outer edge of the coin. This reverse design is consistent with other Braided Hair coins, yet the Petite Head and Small Letters elements make the 1843 coin stand out within the series.
The 1843 Braided Hair Large Cent was minted at the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia, the only minting facility at the time. The Philadelphia Mint, established in 1792, was responsible for producing all of the United States' coinage during this period. By 1843, the Mint had established itself as the primary source of U.S. coinage, meeting the needs of the growing economy. The 1843 coin was struck in copper, a metal that was abundant, inexpensive, and ideal for mass production of low-denomination coins like the Large Cent. The choice of copper allowed the Mint to produce large quantities of coins at a low cost, making it possible for these coins to circulate widely. However, copper’s softness meant that the coins were highly susceptible to wear and damage, which has contributed to the rarity of well-preserved examples of the 1843 coin. Many surviving examples of this coin show significant signs of wear, especially considering the widespread circulation they underwent in everyday transactions during the period.
The mintage of the 1843 Braided Hair Large Cent is estimated at around 3.1 million coins, which was a relatively high mintage for the time. This ensured that the coin was widely circulated and played a significant role in facilitating small transactions across the United States. Copper coins like the Large Cent were integral to the economy, especially in rural areas where these coins were commonly used for everyday purchases. Despite the large mintage, the softness of copper and the extensive circulation of the coin meant that many of the 1843 coins became worn and damaged over time. This widespread circulation, coupled with the coin’s composition, has made high-quality examples of the 1843 Braided Hair Large Cent increasingly rare. Coins that have survived in better condition, particularly those featuring the Petite Head and Small Letters variety, are highly prized by collectors.
The condition of the 1843 Braided Hair Large Cent is a crucial factor in determining its value. Due to the softness of copper and the heavy circulation that most coins from this period experienced, the 1843 coin is generally found in lower grades. A coin graded as Very Fine (VF) shows moderate wear, with most of the design elements still visible but softened or worn down. In the case of the 1843 coin, this means that Liberty’s portrait is still recognizable, but some of the finer details, such as the strands of her hair or the clarity of the stars surrounding her, may be worn away. The date "1843" and the reverse inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" will still be visible but may show some fading or wear. The reverse wreath and the inscription "ONE CENT" may also show signs of wear, but enough detail should remain for the coin to be identifiable. Coins in Very Fine condition are still highly collectible, particularly for key dates like the 1843, which holds significance within the Braided Hair series. Higher-grade examples, such as Extremely Fine (XF) or Uncirculated (MS), are much rarer and command higher prices due to their better preservation, clearer details, and less wear overall.
Collectors of early U.S. coinage will find the 1843 Braided Hair Large Cent to be an essential addition to their collections. The Braided Hair series, minted from 1839 to 1857, is one of the most iconic and widely collected series in American numismatics. The 1843 coin, in particular, represents an important year within this series, making it highly desirable among collectors. For those who specialize in copper coins, large cents, or specific varieties within the Braided Hair series, the 1843 coin is a significant piece. The Petite Head and Small Letters variety further adds to the coin's uniqueness and desirability. The coin’s simple yet elegant design, combined with its historical context, makes it a prized collectible for those interested in the history of U.S. currency. Its place in the broader context of early American coinage ensures that it will remain a valuable item for numismatists.
In conclusion, the 1843 Braided Hair Large Cent is a rare and valuable piece of U.S. numismatic history. The coin’s design, featuring Liberty’s portrait and the reverse wreath symbolizing unity and strength, reflects the ideals of the United States during a time of political stability, economic growth, and territorial expansion. The 1843 coin is significant as part of the Braided Hair series, marking the final years of large copper cents before the Mint transitioned to smaller coins. Despite its large mintage, the coin’s copper composition and widespread circulation meant that well-preserved examples are rare and highly sought after. Whether for its historical importance, its design, or its rarity, the 1843 Braided Hair Large Cent remains a prized item for both collectors and investors interested in early U.S. coinage and the development of the nation’s financial system.