1794 1C Head of 1795, BN
The 1794 1C Head of 1795, BN (Regular Strike), is a notable piece in the annals of U.S. numismatics. This coin, struck in the early years of the U.S. Mint, holds significant interest for collectors due to its intriguing history and relative rarity. As a product of the Philadelphia Mint, the 1794 cent is part of the Early Copper series, which set the stage for subsequent U.S. coin designs.
Mint and Mintage
Produced at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1794 cent carries a historical intrigue as part of the fledgling American coinage. According to PCGS CoinFacts, the estimated mintage was approximately 918,521 coins. This figure, however, includes several varieties with the "Head of 1795" being one. The coins of this era remain subject to considerable study due to the lack of comprehensive records, leading to constant reevaluation of mintage figures by experts. The PCGS identification number for this coin is #1365.
Rarity and Historical Context
The "Head of 1795" distinction comes from the fact that the dies used had a slightly altered Liberty head, which was initially intended for the following year's production but saw use in 1794. This makes this particular version of the 1794 cent especially notable among numismatists. The rarity of the 1794 Head of 1795 cent is compounded by its advanced age, circulation over time, and the survival rate of such early copper coins, which were often melted down or damaged due to the copper's pliability.
Value and Auction Records
The value of the 1794 1C Head of 1795 can vary significantly based on condition and provenance. High-grade examples are especially scarce and command a premium in the numismatic market. As these coins are often sought after, online auction platforms and specialty numismatic houses have seen impressive sales figures. For example, uncirculated or minimally circulated pieces can achieve prices well into five figures, given their desirability and scarcity. Recently, certain examples of this coin have fetched between $10,000 and $50,000, depending on their grade and appearance, as verified by major auction platforms known for their numismatic sales. These evaluations underscore how collectors and investors highly prize these coins.
Numismatic Significance
From a numismatist's viewpoint, the 1794 1C Head of 1795 coin exemplifies the early experimentation and evolving craftsmanship of the U.S. Mint's efforts. The Mint's limited experience with coin production during this period led to variations like the Head of 1795, which have since become prized evidence of the mint's developmental trajectory. For collectors, this variation is not only about the coin's age but also its story – a testament to the United States' early journey towards establishing its own currency system.
Conclusion For collectors and historians, the 1794 1C Head of 1795 remains a fascinating study of early American numismatics. Its place in the lineage of U.S. coinage, coupled with its relative rarity and historical significance, makes it a standout piece. The enigmatic charm of this coin continues to draw interest from numismatic experts and collectors, ensuring its status as a treasured relic of American economic history.
