1800 1C, BN (Regular Strike)

The 1800 1C Large Cent, specifically the "BN" Regular Strike, is a captivating piece of early American numismatic history. The "BN" designation stands for "Brown," which is a color designation given by grading services like PCGS to signify the patina color typically found on copper coins. **Mint and Historical Context** The 1800 Draped Bust Large Cent was struck at the Philadelphia Mint. The Draped Bust design, created by renowned engraver Robert Scot, was part of the series minted from 1796 to 1807. This design features Liberty with flowing hair, a draped bust, and a reverse displaying a wreath encircling the denomination "ONE CENT." **Mintage and Rarity** In 1800, a total of 2,822,175 Large Cents were minted. However, this mintage figure doesn't correlate directly with the coin's availability in today's market due to subsequent melting, circulation, and loss over the centuries. The rarity of the 1800 Large Cent increases significantly when considering coins in higher grades. Many examples found in collections today exhibit significant wear due to extensive circulation. **PCGS Information** According to PCGS CoinFacts, this coin holds the catalog number 1448. PCGS's stringent grading and detailed analysis are pivotal for collectors to assess value and rarity. The survival estimates vary, with approximately 2,500 to 5,000 examples believed to exist, predominantly in the lower circulated grades. **Value and Recent Sales** The value of an 1800 Large Cent can vary greatly depending on its condition, color designation, and any unique characteristics, such as die varieties. Prices can range from several hundred dollars for lower-grade circulated examples to several thousand for coins in higher grades or with particularly attractive surfaces. Recent sales of 1800 Large Cents have been seen at prominent auctions, reflecting varying valuations: - A Fine-graded example typically ranges between $300 to $600. - An Extremely Fine (XF) example can fetch between $1,500 to $3,000, depending on eye appeal and specific die attributes. - Auction records show prices reaching $5,000 or more for AU (About Uncirculated) grade specimens. - Unique or exceptionally well-preserved pieces, such as those with Mint State characteristics (though exceedingly rare), have been known to reach five figures. **Numismatic Perspective** From a numismatist's perspective, the 1800 Draped Bust Cent represents an era where the United States was solidifying its identity and developing its currency system. Collectors highly value these coins for their historical context, the artistry of the Draped Bust design, and the challenges in assembling a complete type set due to varied mint conditions and striking quality. In-depth research and a sharp eye for detail are required for collectors interested in die varieties. The Sheldon variety classification system often identifies specific variances in the die used, offering numismatic enthusiasts a deeper layer of collecting and appreciation. The 1800 Large Cent continues to captivate collectors for its historical significance and as a tangible connection to the dawn of American coinage. Numismatists respect these coins for their place in U.S. history and their persistent journey through generations of American commerce.