1794 1/2C, BN

1794 1/2 Cent, BN The 1794 Liberty Cap Half Cent, identified as BN for its Brown coloration or patina, is a highly sought-after numismatic treasure. Minted in the early years of the United States Mint's operations, this coin represents one of the earliest copper half cents produced. The Philadelphia Mint, the only operating mint in the U.S. at the time, was responsible for striking these coins.

Mintage and Rarity The mintage for the 1794 Half Cent was reported to be 81,600 pieces. However, considering the mint practices of the era and possible loss due to circulation and melting over the centuries, the actual surviving population is significantly lower, making it a rare find today. The 1794 Half Cent exists in several varieties, with the most notable being the Large Edge Letters and Small Edge Letters, each with varying degrees of rarity and collector interest.

Numismatic History From a historical perspective, the 1794 Half Cent holds immense interest as it was minted just two years after the establishment of the U.S. Mint in 1792. The design features a Liberty Cap, which is symbolic of freedom, akin to the Phrygian cap worn by French revolutionaries. The obverse design, created by Robert Scot, incorporates the portrait of Lady Liberty, which has been a recurrent theme in U.S. coinage, representing the nation's values and ideals of liberty and independence.

Coin Description The obverse of the 1794 Half Cent features a right-facing bust of Liberty, adorned with a cap, surrounded by the inscription "LIBERTY" and the date "1794" below. The reverse displays a simple yet elegant wreath encircling the denomination "HALF CENT."

Value and Market Trends The value of a 1794 Half Cent significantly varies depending on its condition and specific variety. Condition grades from Good (G) to Mint State (MS) can greatly influence prices, with well-preserved, higher-grade coins achieving substantial figures at auctions. On several occasions, pristine examples have fetched upwards of $10,000 in auctions. Prices can soar even higher for coins with especially compelling provenance or those that carry particular historical significance. Online auction sites have recorded notable sales: - An MS64 BN was sold for significant premiums over its counterparts due to its exceptional grade and aesthetic appeal. - An AU55 example was auctioned at prices reflecting the high demand for quality survivors from this early minting period. These sales exemplify the strong market interest and the premium placed on quality and rarity by collectors. 

PCGS Information According to PCGS CoinFacts, the coin has been cataloged under the PCGS Number 1006. This comprehensive repository offers valuable insight into the coin's grading statistics, survival estimates, and auction results, essential for collectors and investors looking to delve deeper into the coin's market dynamics.

Collectability The 1794 Liberty Cap Half Cent holds a cherished place in the realm of numismatics due to its early date and historical significance. Collectors who specialize in early American copper coins often seek this coin to complete a comprehensive set of U.S. half cents, appreciating its connection to the nascent years of the United States coinage system. Its design and mintage story provide a tangible link to the rich tapestry of American history and the evolution of currency in the United States.