1807 1C Small Fraction, BN (Regular Strike)

The 1807 1C Small Fraction, BN (Regular Strike) is a fascinating piece in U.S. numismatic history with significant interest among collectors due to its rarity and historical context. The coin is classified under the Draped Bust series, which was designed by Robert Scot, the first Chief Engraver of the United States Mint. **Mint and Mintage** This cent was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, the only mint operating in the United States at the time. The mintage for the 1807 1C Small Fraction is approximately 728,000. The PCGS coin number, according to PCGS CoinFacts, is 1600. **Rarity** In the realm of early American coinage, the 1807 1C Small Fraction garners attention due to its scarcity, especially in higher grades. This particular issue is part of the Draped Bust series that was struck between 1796 and 1807. The "Small Fraction" designation refers to the smaller font size used for the fraction on the coin's reverse, an attribute arising during minting when dies were prepared with varying numeral sizes. **Historical Significance** During this period, the young United States was solidifying its monetary system. Copper coins, such as this one-cent piece, were essential in everyday transactions. Coins like the 1807 1C Small Fraction serve as tangible links to the economic and cultural landscape of early 19th-century America. **Value and Market Demand** The value of the 1807 1C Small Fraction can vary significantly based on condition. Typical grades for circulated coins range from Good to Fine. In lower circulated grades, these coins have historically sold in the range of a few hundred dollars. As with many early cents, the premium escalates markedly for higher-grade examples. For instance, collector demand pushes prices dramatically upward for coins that are in Very Fine (VF) or Extremely Fine (XF) condition and especially for those attaining About Uncirculated (AU) or Mint State (MS) grades. The appeal and price for these coins are heightened by the combination of their historical resonance and the relative scarcity of high-grade examples. High-caliber auctions frequently report sales of these coins achieving thousands of dollars. Notable auction sales have seen well-preserved examples fetch over $10,000, depending on factors such as provenance, striking quality, and surface preservation. **Numismatist Insights** Numismatists place particular importance on both the aesthetic elements and the historical character of the 1807 1C Small Fraction. Each coin tells a story from its circulation period, and variations in the surviving examples, such as die cracks or planchet flaws, provide additional intrigue for enthusiasts and scholars alike. These traits make numismatic investigation both a science and an art, particularly for early American copper cents. With the data available from sites like CoinFacts, collectors continuously seek detailed insights into grading scales, auction trends, and provenance histories to aid in evaluating the significance and potential appreciation of these coins. **Conclusion** The 1807 1C Small Fraction maintains its status as a cherished collectible not only for its role in the evolution of U.S. coinage but also for its aesthetic and historical value. As the numismatic community continues to uncover, document, and exchange these historic pieces, they remain a notable focus for those seeking to preserve a slice of American history.