1806 1/2C Small 6, No Stems, BN
The 1806 1/2C Small 6, No Stems, BN (Regular Strike) is a captivating piece from the early 19th century, belonging to the Classic Head Flowing Hair design of the half cent series, minted in the United States. This specific variety is notable for the absence of stems on the laurel wreath on the reverse and the small size of the digit "6" in the date, which numismatists often emphasize for differentiation purposes.
Mint and Mintage Produced at the young U.S. Philadelphia Mint, in 1806, this coin saw a relatively limited production run. The year 1806 saw the mintage of approximately 356,000 half cents across different varieties, but specific mintage numbers for the Small 6, No Stems variety are not documented separately which adds to its allure and intrigue among collectors.
Rarity and Collectability The rarity of the 1806 Small 6, No Stems half-cent stems from its limited surviving population, which has attracted enthusiasm among collectors, especially those passionate about early American copper coins. This variant is challenging to find in higher grades, such as Extremely Fine (XF) or About Uncirculated (AU), making well-preserved examples particularly sought after.
Market Value and Sales History As with many historic coins, the value of the 1806 Small 6, No Stems, BN is heavily influenced by its condition, with prices escalating dramatically for coins in higher states of preservation. For instance, lower-grade examples might trade for a few hundred dollars, reflecting their historical significance but worn state. In contrast, specimens that approach Mint State can command impressive premiums, sometimes reaching thousands of dollars in auctions. Highlighting an auction record, a well-maintained example might fetch prices above $1,000, with the finest known pieces sometimes exceeding $10,000. Such sales underscore both the coin’s historical appeal and the rarity of higher-grade survivors. Confirmed auction results have witnessed this coin being celebrated in notable numismatic events, with prices reflecting the coin’s demand among enthusiasts of early American coinage.
Numismatic History Numismatists often explore the 1806 Small 6, No Stems variant for its insights into early American minting practices and design choices. The absence of stems on the wreath signifies the experimentation in design and engraving during this era. This variant provides valuable glimpses into the stylistic evolutions and minting challenges during the period of its production.
PCGS Information According to the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), which offers a comprehensive catalog of U.S. coinage, collectors interested in this coin look for details under PCGS #1093. This helps in identifying the coin officially and understanding its condition-specific values better. In summary, the 1806 1/2C Small 6, No Stems, BN stands as a testament to early American numismatics. Its mixture of historical significance, rarity, and artistic expression ensures its enduring appeal among coin collectors. Exploring this variant offers a rich narrative into the development of American coinage and the legacy of the U.S. Mint's foundational years.