1807 1/2C, BN
The 1807 1/2 Cent, BN (Breen Number) is an enigmatic and sought-after coin from the early 19th century United States. Part of a series minted between 1800 and 1808, the 1807 Draped Bust Half Cent stands out for its historical value, design, and numismatic appeal. Its creation followed the fledgling U.S. Mint's effort to provide small denomination currency for everyday transactions at a time when much of the economy operated on barter or foreign currency.
Mint and Mintage : The 1807 Draped Bust Half Cent was struck at the Philadelphia Mint. According to PCGS CoinFacts, its mintage for this particular year was 476,000 pieces. Despite this seemingly substantial number for the era, the survival rate is low; many were lost, melted, or heavily circulated, contributing to its relative rarity today.
PCGS Number : The PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) assigns the number 1104 to this coin, reflecting its specific details and ensuring a consistent cataloging standard among collectors and dealers.
Rarity : The 1807 1/2 Cent is not only rare in terms of surviving numbers but also on account of its condition. Pristine examples are significantly scarce, which features prominently in their auction results. Most of the surviving specimens show heavy circulation, with finer grades being extremely limited. Collectors often categorize them by "Red" (RD), "Red Brown" (RB), and "Brown" (BN) due to variations in the coin’s original copper color, particularly after two centuries of wear and environmental interaction.
Value and Recent Sales : The market value of an 1807 1/2 Cent varies widely, depending on its grade and coloration. Well-preserved specimens command substantial premiums. In recent years, auction prices have illustrated the coin's market trajectory and desirability. For instance, higher-grade coins have been seen fetching several thousand dollars at auction houses. These values continue to appreciate due to historical significance and the persistent popularity with numismatists. For lower-grade examples, prices have been observed in the lower hundreds to just over a thousand dollars, offering more accessible entry points for collectors. These coins can often be obtained at auction or through specialty dealers focusing on Early American copper coinage.
Historical Perspective : From a numismatist's viewpoint, the 1807 Draped Bust Half Cent is a remarkable artifact of early American monetary policy and minting practices. The Draped Bust design, conceived by renowned engraver Robert Scot, captures a neoclassical depiction of Liberty, reflective of the era's artistic inclinations. The reverse features a wreath, a common motif, symbolizing agricultural prosperity and peace. As America was then a young republic, the mint faced challenges in producing consistent, high-quality coins. Thus, even within a given year like 1807, variations can occur due to differences in die wear and production techniques.
Numismatic Significance : This coin is often studied for its metal composition and minting process, as it provides insight into early 19th-century technological constraints and domestic economic strategies. Collectors treasure the 1807 1/2 Cent not merely as an investment or a piece of American history, but as a tangible connection to the nation's developmental years. Inclusion in fine numismatic collections often adds prestige and provides a comprehensive narrative of the era's currency system. Its allure remains strong among enthusiasts who appreciate the depth of context and condition variables influencing the Draped Bust Half Cent's legacy today.
