-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 55228
Checkout
The US Large Cent 1846 Braided Hair Tall Date is a fascinating and historically significant coin from the mid-19th century, representing a time when large copper cents were still a staple of American commerce. The Braided Hair design, introduced in 1839, was the final iteration of the Large Cent series before being replaced by the smaller Flying Eagle Cent in 1857. The 1846 issue is particularly notable for its Tall Date variety, a distinct type within the series that attracts collectors due to its unique numeral arrangement and historical significance.
The Large Cent was first introduced in 1793 as part of the early coinage system established by the newly formed United States Mint. These coins were minted primarily from copper and were significantly larger than modern cents. By the 1840s, Large Cents had become widely accepted for daily transactions, but they were beginning to face opposition due to their bulky size and limited practicality. The 1846 Braided Hair Cent was struck during this transitional period, making it an interesting piece of numismatic history as the U.S. Mint experimented with coinage reforms.
The obverse of the 1846 Braided Hair Tall Date Large Cent features a left-facing portrait of Liberty, designed by Chief Engraver Christian Gobrecht. Liberty’s hair is styled in an elegant braid, secured by a string of beads, and her head is adorned with a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." The design is framed by thirteen stars, representing the original thirteen colonies, with the date "1846" prominently displayed below. The Tall Date variety is characterized by numerals that are taller and more spaced out than those on the standard issue, creating a distinct appearance that sets it apart from other 1846 cents.
The reverse of the coin showcases a laurel wreath encircling the denomination "ONE CENT" in bold capital letters. The words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" form a circular inscription along the outer edge. The wreath is intricately detailed, with each leaf and branch carefully engraved, reflecting the artistic craftsmanship of the era. The outer border of the coin features denticles, a common design element used to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.
The 1846 Braided Hair Large Cent was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the only facility producing cents at the time. The Philadelphia Mint, established in 1792, was responsible for striking the nation’s early coinage and played a crucial role in American numismatic history. Large Cents from this period were produced using manually operated screw presses, which often resulted in slight variations in strike quality and die alignment.
The mintage of the 1846 Large Cent is estimated to be approximately 3.9 million pieces. While this figure is relatively high for the era, many of these coins circulated heavily, resulting in significant wear and a scarcity of well-preserved examples today. The Tall Date variety, while not exceedingly rare, is an appealing collectible due to its distinct numeral arrangement and the demand among die variety enthusiasts.
The condition of the 1846 Braided Hair Tall Date Large Cent in Good grade reflects a coin that has seen extensive circulation but retains key design elements. In this grade, the details of Liberty’s portrait are heavily worn, with significant flattening of the facial features, hair, and coronet. The "LIBERTY" inscription on the coronet may be partially or fully worn away, depending on the level of circulation. The stars surrounding Liberty are often faint, with some blending into the coin’s field.
The reverse of a Good condition 1846 Large Cent typically shows considerable wear, with the laurel wreath appearing smooth and lacking fine detail. The central lettering of "ONE CENT" remains legible but may exhibit some fading, particularly around the edges. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" is usually visible but worn, and the outer denticles may be weak or partially worn away due to extensive handling over the years.
Despite the extensive wear, a Good-grade 1846 Braided Hair Tall Date Large Cent retains its historical charm and collector appeal. Many collectors appreciate these early copper coins for their connection to 19th-century commerce, where they played a vital role in everyday transactions. While high-grade specimens command significant premiums, lower-grade examples remain accessible and desirable for those seeking to own a piece of American numismatic history.
One of the challenges of collecting Large Cents in lower grades is the potential for surface issues such as corrosion, porosity, and environmental damage. Copper is highly reactive to moisture and air, making these coins susceptible to oxidation over time. A well-preserved Good-grade example should have a relatively smooth surface with minimal pitting or corrosion, although some level of toning and patina is expected. Coins with excessive corrosion, deep scratches, or harsh cleaning marks can be considered less desirable by collectors.
The patina on an 1846 Large Cent in Good condition can vary significantly, ranging from dark brown to reddish hues. Natural toning is often preferred by collectors, as it indicates a coin that has aged without significant cleaning or alteration. Artificially cleaned coins may exhibit an unnatural brightness or streaky appearance, which can detract from their originality and numismatic value.
The appeal of the 1846 Braided Hair Tall Date Large Cent extends beyond its physical characteristics. This coin serves as a tangible link to a formative period in U.S. history, a time of westward expansion, industrial growth, and political transformation. Large Cents were among the most commonly used coins of the era, circulating in both urban and rural areas, and playing a key role in trade and commerce.
For collectors seeking to acquire an 1846 Braided Hair Tall Date Large Cent in Good condition, reputable numismatic dealers, coin shows, and online auctions provide excellent sources. It is essential to verify authenticity and condition before purchasing, as counterfeits and altered coins occasionally appear in the market. Third-party grading services such as NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) and PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) offer certification that guarantees a coin’s authenticity and grade.
The value of an 1846 Braided Hair Tall Date Large Cent in Good condition depends on factors such as overall eye appeal, surface quality, and market demand. While lower-grade examples are more affordable than higher-grade specimens, they still hold significant numismatic interest due to their historical importance and collector appeal. Well-preserved Good-grade examples with even wear and strong detail retention are particularly desirable.
The 1846 Braided Hair Tall Date Large Cent remains an essential piece for collectors of early American copper coinage. Its distinct date variety, historical significance, and role in 19th-century commerce make it a compelling addition to any collection. Whether appreciated for its design, its connection to America’s economic history, or its collectible value, this coin continues to captivate numismatists and history enthusiasts alike.
The Braided Hair Large Cent series represents the final chapter of the Large Cent’s long history, as these coins would eventually be phased out in favor of smaller, more practical coinage. The 1846 Tall Date variety stands as a testament to the era’s minting practices and the ever-evolving nature of U.S. coinage. Collectors and historians alike cherish these coins as enduring symbols of a bygone age, preserving the legacy of America’s early monetary system for future generations.