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The 1857 U.S. Large Cent, featuring the Braided Hair design with the LD (Large Date) variety, is a notable coin in American numismatics. This coin was minted during the final years of the Large Cent series, a time when the U.S. Mint was preparing to transition to smaller coin denominations due to the rising costs of copper. The Braided Hair design, which was introduced in 1839 and continued through 1857, represents the last major iteration of the large copper cent, a denomination that had been integral to the U.S. financial system for much of the 19th century. The 1857 coin holds particular historical significance as it marked the end of the Large Cent series, making it a key piece for collectors and investors interested in the history of American currency.
The design of the 1857 Braided Hair Large Cent was created by Christian Gobrecht, the Chief Engraver at the U.S. Mint at the time. The obverse of the coin features a left-facing portrait of Liberty, her hair intricately braided and flowing behind her. Liberty wears a simple cap inscribed with the word “LIBERTY,” a symbol of 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. Below the bust is the date “1857,” marking the year of minting. The reverse of the coin features a wreath made of laurel and oak leaves, which symbolize strength, honor, and unity. The inscription “ONE CENT” is placed within the wreath, with the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” surrounding the coin’s outer edge. This design emphasizes unity, which was an important message for the nation as it dealt with growing political tensions and rapid economic growth during this period. The Braided Hair design is a representation of the national identity at a time when the United States was facing both internal and external challenges.
The 1857 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 1857, the Mint had the capacity to produce large quantities of coins to meet the growing demand for currency. The 1857 coin was struck in copper, a metal that was both abundant and cost-effective, making it ideal for low-denomination coins like the Large Cent. Copper allowed the Mint to produce a significant number of coins without driving up production costs, which was crucial during a time of economic expansion. However, copper’s softness made the coins prone to wear and damage during circulation, which has contributed to the rarity of well-preserved examples of the 1857 coin. Most surviving examples of the 1857 coin show significant signs of wear due to the coin's extensive circulation.
The mintage of the 1857 Braided Hair Large Cent is estimated to be around 17.5 million coins, one of the largest mintages for the series. This high mintage ensured that the coin was widely circulated and used in everyday transactions across the United States. Copper coins like the Large Cent were essential for providing small-denomination currency, particularly for everyday purchases and transactions in rural areas. The 1857 coin played a key role in facilitating trade and commerce as the U.S. economy expanded. However, despite the high mintage, the widespread circulation and the softness of copper meant that most of these coins were worn down quickly. As a result, well-preserved examples of the 1857 coin are relatively rare, and those in higher grades command a premium price in the numismatic market. The high mintage of the 1857 coin means that it is more commonly found than other dates in the Braided Hair series, but its condition is what truly influences its value among collectors.
The condition of the 1857 Braided Hair Large Cent plays a significant role in determining its value. As with many copper coins from this era, the 1857 coin was subjected to heavy circulation and is often found in lower grades. A coin graded as Extra Fine (XF) shows light to moderate wear, with most of the design details still clearly visible but softened or worn down. For the 1857 coin, this means that Liberty’s portrait remains sharp and easily recognizable, though some of the finer details, such as the strands of her hair or the clarity of the stars surrounding her, may be slightly worn. The date “1857” and the reverse inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” will still be clearly visible, though some fading or wear may be present. The reverse wreath and the “ONE CENT” inscription will also show wear, but enough detail should remain for identification. Coins in Extra Fine condition are highly desirable, especially for a key date like the 1857, which marks the end of the Large Cent series. Higher-grade examples, such as About Uncirculated (AU) or Uncirculated (MS), are rarer and command higher prices due to their superior preservation and clearer details.
The 1857 Braided Hair Large Cent was minted during a period of economic growth and territorial expansion in the United States. The country was recovering from the Panic of 1837 and experiencing a period of relative political stability and prosperity. The 1850s were a time of increasing industrialization, with improvements in transportation, manufacturing, and agriculture. This period saw rapid westward expansion, with settlers moving into newly acquired territories. However, the decade also brought increasing political tensions, particularly surrounding issues of slavery and states’ rights. The 1857 coin reflects the optimism of the time, symbolizing the unity and strength of the United States during a period of growth and internal conflict. As the nation was transitioning toward a smaller, more efficient coinage system, the Braided Hair series represented an important chapter in the history of U.S. coinage.
Collectors of early U.S. coinage will find the 1857 Braided Hair Large Cent to be a valuable addition to their collections. The Braided Hair series, which ran from 1839 to 1857, is one of the most iconic and widely collected series in American numismatics. The 1857 coin, as part of this series, holds a special place as the final year of the large copper cents before the Mint transitioned to smaller coins. For collectors who specialize in copper coins, large cents, or specific years within the Braided Hair series, the 1857 coin is a key issue. The coin’s design, featuring Liberty’s portrait and the reverse wreath, symbolizes the unity and strength of the United States during a period of significant change. The 1857 coin’s place in history, combined with its role as the last of the large copper cents, ensures its status as a prized collectible.
In conclusion, the 1857 Braided Hair Large Cent is a rare and valuable piece of U.S. numismatic history. The coin’s design, with its depiction of Liberty and the reverse wreath symbolizing unity and strength, reflects the ideals of the United States during a time of economic growth, political stability, and territorial expansion. The 1857 coin is significant as part of the Braided Hair series, marking the final year of the 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 1857 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.