US Large Cent 1856 Braided Hair Slanting 5 Very Good

The 1856 U.S. Large Cent, featuring the Braided Hair design with the Slanting 5 variety, is a significant coin in the history of U.S. numismatics. Minted during a period of political and economic transition, this coin reflects the ongoing development of the United States’ currency system. The Braided Hair series, which ran from 1839 to 1857, marked the final years of the large copper cents, and the 1856 coin represents a pivotal moment in the series. The coin is notable for its Slanting 5 variety, which distinguishes it from other coins in the same series due to the design of the digit "5" in the year. This variation in the date is a result of slight differences in die preparation and has made the 1856 Slanting 5 Large Cent highly sought after by collectors due to its uniqueness and historical importance.

The design of the 1856 Braided Hair Large Cent was created by Christian Gobrecht, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. The obverse of the coin features a left-facing portrait of Liberty, with her hair intricately braided and flowing behind her. Liberty wears a simple cap inscribed with the word “LIBERTY,” symbolizing freedom and the nation’s ideals of independence. Surrounding Liberty’s portrait are 13 stars, which represent the original 13 colonies of the United States. Below the bust is the date “1856,” which in the Slanting 5 variety, shows the digit “5” angled slightly to the right, a subtle but notable design difference compared to other coins of the series. The reverse of the coin features a wreath of laurel and oak leaves encircling the words “ONE CENT,” with the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” surrounding the coin’s edge. The wreath symbolizes strength, unity, and victory, ideals that were central to the United States during this period of territorial expansion and political change.

The 1856 Braided Hair Large Cent was minted at the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia, which was the primary minting facility for the United States at the time. The Philadelphia Mint, established in 1792, was responsible for producing all of the country’s coinage during this period. By 1856, the Mint had developed the capacity to produce large quantities of coins to meet the demands of the growing U.S. economy. The 1856 coin was struck in copper, which was both abundant and relatively inexpensive, making it an ideal material for producing low-denomination coins like the Large Cent. Copper allowed the Mint to produce a substantial number of coins without incurring significant costs, making it a key component of the nation’s currency system. However, copper coins like the Large Cent were also prone to wear and corrosion, which was a common issue for many coins struck during this period. This wear, combined with the large size of the coin, meant that many surviving examples show signs of damage from circulation.

The mintage of the 1856 Braided Hair Large Cent is estimated at around 11 million coins, which was a relatively high production figure for the time. The large mintage ensured that the coin was widely circulated and used in everyday transactions across the United States. The 1856 coin played an important role in facilitating trade and commerce during a time of significant economic and territorial expansion. However, as with many copper coins, the 1856 Large Cent suffered from wear and corrosion due to its extensive circulation. The coin’s soft copper composition meant that it was highly susceptible to damage, with many of the coins becoming worn down over time. As a result, high-quality examples of the 1856 Braided Hair Large Cent are relatively rare, and well-preserved coins are highly sought after by collectors. Despite its high mintage, the condition of surviving coins varies greatly due to the heavy circulation they endured.

The condition of the 1856 Braided Hair Large Cent plays a critical role in determining its value. Coins from this era, especially copper coins, were often heavily circulated and are typically found in worn condition. A coin graded as Very Good (VG) typically shows moderate wear, with most of the design elements still visible but softened or worn down. For the 1856 coin, this means that Liberty’s portrait is still identifiable, but some of the finer details, such as the strands of her hair or the clarity of the stars surrounding her, may be faint or worn away. The date “1856” and the reverse inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” may still be visible, though they could show signs of fading. The reverse wreath and “ONE CENT” inscription may also be partially worn, but enough detail should remain to allow for identification. Coins in Very Good condition are still highly collectible, especially for key dates like the 1856, which is significant within the Braided Hair series. Higher-grade examples, such as Fine (F) or Very Fine (VF), are rarer and command higher prices due to their better preservation, with clearer features and less wear overall.

The 1856 Braided Hair Large Cent was minted during a period of territorial expansion and economic growth for the United States. The country had recently emerged from the War of 1812 and was enjoying a period of relative peace. The 1850s were marked by significant territorial acquisitions, including the annexation of Texas and the ongoing settlement of the western frontier. The U.S. economy was also experiencing industrial growth, with the rise of railroads, manufacturing, and agriculture contributing to the expansion of the nation’s infrastructure. However, the 1850s were also a time of political tension, particularly over the issue of slavery, which would eventually lead to the Civil War. The 1856 coin reflects this period of growth and division, as it was produced in a time of both progress and uncertainty. The Braided Hair design, with its symbolism of unity and strength, was fitting for a nation on the brink of significant change.

For investors, the 1856 Braided Hair Large Cent provides a rare opportunity to own a piece of early U.S. coinage. While the intrinsic value of copper is relatively low, the historical significance and rarity of the 1856 coin make it highly desirable. The Slanting 5 variety, in particular, adds an extra layer of interest for collectors, as it is a distinctive feature that sets the coin apart from other issues in the Braided Hair series. High-grade examples of the 1856 Braided Hair Large Cent are scarce, as most coins from this period were heavily circulated and show signs of wear. As time passes, the number of well-preserved examples will continue to decline, making those in better condition increasingly valuable. For investors looking for a historically significant and rare piece of U.S. coinage, the 1856 Braided Hair Large Cent represents an excellent investment opportunity.

Collectors of early U.S. coinage will find the 1856 Braided Hair Large Cent to be an essential piece of their collections. The Braided Hair series, which ran from 1839 to 1857, is one of the most widely collected and iconic series in American numismatics. The 1856 coin, in particular, is a key issue within this series, with its Slanting 5 variety adding an element of rarity and distinction. For collectors who specialize in copper coins, large cents, or specific varieties within the Braided Hair series, the 1856 coin is an important addition to their collection. The coin’s design, with its elegant portrayal of Liberty and the reverse wreath symbolizing unity, makes it a prized collectible for those interested in early U.S. coinage. Its historical context, combined with its unique features, ensures that the 1856 Braided Hair Large Cent will remain a valuable item for collectors for years to come.

In conclusion, the 1856 Braided Hair Large Cent is a rare and valuable piece of U.S. numismatic history. The coin’s design, which features Liberty’s portrait and the reverse wreath symbolizing unity, reflects the ideals of the United States during a time of economic growth and political transition. The 1856 coin is significant within the Braided Hair series, especially with its Slanting 5 variety, which distinguishes it from other coins in the series. Despite its relatively high mintage, the coin’s copper composition and widespread circulation mean that well-preserved examples are rare and highly sought after. Whether for its historical importance, its design, or its rarity, the 1856 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 monetary system.

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• Year: 1856
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