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The US Large Cent 1852 Braided Hair in Fine condition is a compelling example of mid-19th-century American coinage, showcasing the artistic and practical aspects of numismatic design during that era. The Braided Hair series, introduced by Christian Gobrecht in 1839, represented a significant update from the earlier Classic Head design. This series is notable for its intricate depiction of Liberty and its importance in the everyday financial transactions of the time.
The obverse of the 1852 Braided Hair Large Cent features a detailed portrait of Liberty, facing left. Her hair is styled in a braided coil, which is elegantly tied with a ribbon at the back of her head. This design highlights Gobrecht’s skillful portrayal of Liberty with a sense of refinement and dignity. Below Liberty’s neck, the year “1852” is inscribed, indicating the coin’s date of minting. In Fine condition, the coin shows moderate wear, resulting in softened details but retaining the essential features of Liberty’s portrait. The braiding of her hair and the ribbon are visible, albeit with some wear that affects the sharpness of the design.
The reverse of the 1852 Large Cent is adorned with a laurel wreath encircling the denomination “ONE CENT.” The laurel wreath, a symbol of honor and victory, is depicted with significant detail, including leaves and berries. Surrounding the wreath are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” reinforcing the coin’s official status. In Fine condition, the reverse design exhibits noticeable wear, impacting the finer details of the wreath and the inscription. Despite this wear, the overall design remains clear, preserving the coin’s symbolic and functional significance.
The 1852 Braided Hair Large Cent was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, the first and most significant mint facility in the United States. The Philadelphia Mint played a crucial role in the production of American coinage since its establishment in 1792. The total mintage of the 1852 Large Cent was approximately 2,528,000 pieces. This substantial mintage reflects the coin’s widespread circulation and its role in everyday commerce during the mid-19th century.
In Fine condition, the 1852 Braided Hair Large Cent exhibits moderate wear that has affected the finer details of both the obverse and reverse designs. The wear is evident in the softened features of Liberty’s portrait and the laurel wreath on the reverse. However, the coin retains its key design elements, offering a glimpse into its historical use and significance. The Fine grade is indicative of a coin that has been circulated but is still relatively well-preserved, making it a valuable addition for collectors and numismatic enthusiasts.
The Braided Hair design was a significant development in American coinage, reflecting contemporary artistic trends and advancements in engraving techniques. Gobrecht’s design aimed to modernize the appearance of Liberty while maintaining the coin’s traditional value and symbolic importance. The 1852 Large Cent, as part of this series, embodies these design principles and represents a notable period in the evolution of U.S. coinage.
For collectors and numismatic enthusiasts, the 1852 Braided Hair Large Cent is an important piece of American currency. Its design, historical context, and minting details contribute to its value as both a collectible and a historical artifact. The coin’s continued appeal underscores its significance in the broader narrative of American numismatic history and its role in the evolution of U.S. currency.
Overall, the US Large Cent 1852 Braided Hair in Fine condition represents an important aspect of American numismatic heritage. The coin’s design, minting history, and contextual significance make it a noteworthy addition to any collection, reflecting its place within the broader scope of American coinage and its enduring legacy in the history of U.S. currency.
