US Large Cent 1847 Braided Hair Fine

The US Large Cent 1847 Braided Hair in Fine condition is a representative example of the Braided Hair design series, which was introduced by the U.S. Mint in 1839. This coin is notable for its historical and numismatic significance, reflecting the aesthetic and technical advancements of American coinage during the early 19th century. The Braided Hair series, designed by Christian Gobrecht, was an attempt to modernize and refine the appearance of U.S. cents, and the 1847 issue provides a glimpse into this pivotal era of American minting history.

The obverse of the 1847 Braided Hair Large Cent features a portrait of Liberty, distinguished by her elaborate braided hairstyle. The design depicts Liberty facing left, with her hair styled in an intricate braid that wraps around her head. This portrayal was intended to present a more refined and elegant image of Liberty compared to earlier designs. At the base of Liberty’s bust is the year “1847,” which marks the coin’s date of issue. In Fine condition, the coin shows moderate wear, yet the key features of the portrait, including the braided hair and the inscription "LIBERTY" on the coronet, are still visible and provide a clear representation of the original design.

On the reverse, the 1847 Large Cent displays a laurel wreath encircling the denomination "ONE CENT." The wreath is crafted with a detailed and symmetrical arrangement of laurel leaves, symbolizing honor and achievement. The inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” wraps around the wreath, affirming the coin’s status as legal tender within the country. In Fine condition, while some of the finer details of the wreath might be softened due to wear, the overall design remains intact, and the essential elements are easily recognizable.

The coin was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the primary facility responsible for producing U.S. coinage at that time. The Philadelphia Mint was established in 1792 and played a crucial role in the early development of American numismatic history. The 1847 Braided Hair Large Cent had a mintage of approximately 2,607,000 pieces. This high mintage indicates that the coin was widely circulated and used in everyday transactions, reflecting its importance in the American economy of the mid-19th century.

The Fine grade of the 1847 Braided Hair Large Cent signifies that the coin has experienced moderate circulation. The wear on the coin has affected some of the finer details of the design, but the major features, including Liberty’s portrait and the wreath on the reverse, are still discernible. In this condition, the coin’s historical and aesthetic value remains evident, providing collectors and numismatists with a tangible connection to early American coinage.

The Braided Hair design, which was introduced to replace the earlier Classic Head design, was part of a broader effort to refresh U.S. coinage. Christian Gobrecht, the engraver responsible for the design, aimed to create a more contemporary and visually appealing representation of Liberty. The 1847 Braided Hair Large Cent reflects these design goals and represents an important step in the evolution of American currency. Its production during a period of economic growth and technological advancement highlights the Mint’s commitment to both functionality and artistry in coin design.

For collectors, the 1847 Braided Hair Large Cent offers valuable insight into the development of U.S. coinage during the mid-19th century. The coin’s design, mintage, and historical context make it an important piece for those interested in the evolution of American currency. Its continued appeal underscores its significance as a historical artifact and a testament to the craftsmanship and design innovations of the era.

Overall, the US Large Cent 1847 Braided Hair in Fine condition is a noteworthy example of early American coinage. Its design, minting history, and significance as part of the Braided Hair series contribute to its value as a collectible and a symbol of early American monetary practices. For those interested in numismatic history, this coin provides a tangible link to a crucial period in the development of U.S. currency.

• Denomination: N/A
• Year: 1847
• Diameter: N/A
• Mint Mark: N/A
• Thickness: N/A
• Grade: N/A