1807/6 1C Small 7, Draped Bust Cent
The 1807/6 1C Small 7, BN (Regular Strike) is a notable and collectible variety in the series of large cents produced by the United States Mint. This coin, minted in the early 19th century, is known for its intriguing overdate feature, where the digit 7 is stamped over a 6 in the date. The "Small 7" variety refers to the size of the digit in contrast to other varieties from the same year.
Mint and Mintage
Mint : Philadelphia
Mintage: An estimated total of 829,221 large cents were minted in 1807, but not all were the overdate variety. The specific mintage for the 1807/6 Small 7 is not distinctly known, adding to its mystique and desirability among collectors.
PCGS Information : # 1525
Rarity and Collectibility
The 1807/6 Small 7 cent is considered scarce, especially in higher grades. As a transitional variety, it presents an interesting aspect for numismatists due to its minting error, and as such, it holds a particular appeal to collectors of early American copper coins. The rarity is enhanced due to the paucity of high-quality specimens available today.
Historical Context
The early 1800s was a period of growth and experimentation for the U.S. Mint. Coinage designs were evolving, and issues like the overdate reveal the complexities and challenges faced by engravers and die makers during this era. The 1807/6 reflects both the improvisational nature of the mint workers and the burgeoning coinage system in the United States.
Value and Market Trends
The market value of the 1807/6 Small 7 varies significantly based on condition, with prices for lower-grade specimens starting from a few hundred dollars, reaching into several thousand dollars for coins in higher grades. In recent years, noted auction sales have illustrated the high demand for this coin. For instance, a well-preserved example might command substantial sums at specialty coin auctions, where committed collectors vie for the opportunity to own this piece of American numismatic history.
Sales Examples
A recent sale showcased an 1807/6 Small 7 in VG (Very Good) condition selling for approximately $500, while an EF (Extremely Fine) condition piece fetched over $5,000, highlighting the significant price escalation with grade improvements. - In some prominent auctions, coins with exceptional eye appeal or possessing particularly strong strike details have realized even higher prices, confirming the strong market interest and collector demand.
Numismatist Perspective
From a numismatist's standpoint, the 1807/6 Small 7 is more than just a coin; it is a tangible link to the early industrial processes of the U.S. Mint and embodies the evolution of coinage. The allure of such a piece lies in its dual appeal: as a historical artifact and as a representative of the complex narrative of early American coin production. Enthusiasts appreciate not only the distinctiveness of its overdate feature but also the craftsmanship and the stoic endurance of these copper cents in circulation over two centuries ago. Collectors and historians alike value the coin for its contribution to the story of American numismatics and its embodiment of an era of burgeoning national identity and infrastructure.
