1808 1C, BN
The 1808 1C, BN (Regular Strike), known as the Classic Head Large Cent, occupies a fascinating place in numismatic history. Minted in the United States, the piece is a product of its era, embodying both rarity and historical value that collectors avidly seek.
Mint and Mintage
The 1808 1C was minted in Philadelphia, the sole minting institution for U.S. coins at that time. The mintage for this year was around 1,007,000. This figure reflects a relatively limited production run, adding a layer of rarity as many coins have not survived the test of time in mint condition.
Rarity and Historical Significance
From a numismatic perspective, the 1808 1C is significant due to its age and design. Featuring the Classic Head design by John Reich, the coin represented a change from the previous Draped Bust cents and was part of a broader shift in U.S. coinage aesthetics. Coins from the early 1800s already attract attention merely from their age, and the Classic Head series adds historical intrigue given its short run (1808-1814), further elevating its rarity.
Valuation and Sales
Due to their age and condition, the value of the 1808 1C, BN can vary greatly. Coins in well-preserved conditions, such as those graded by PCGS as XF40 or better, can fetch significant prices at auction. Notable sales have seen these coins reach values in the high hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on their condition and provenance. Auction houses have realized sale prices of over $1,000 for specimens in XF40 and over $3,000 for AU50 grades, indicative of strong collector interest and the coin's inherent value.
PCGS Coin Facts
According to PCGS CoinFacts, this particular coin is indexed under the PCGS #1543. The market's enthusiasm for this coin is evidenced by its performance at auctions and private sales alike. Collectors seek coins encapsulated and graded by PCGS to ensure authenticity and precise condition grading, which significantly impact the coin's market value.
Additional Insights
The Classic Head design's transition was partly a response to the softness of the copper planchets used at that time, which wore down the design too quickly. The new design was meant to remedy this by featuring a more prominent head design amidst a cleaner backdrop. Collectors appreciate the 1808 1C not just for its aesthetics but also for what it represents about early U.S. minting technology and artistry. The survival of these coins largely depends on how they were stored and handled over two centuries. Many of these pieces were lost or heavily damaged over time, contributing to their scarcity in higher grades today. In conclusion, the 1808 1C, BN illustrates a compelling chapter in U.S. numismatic history, offering insights into the era's minting practices and design transitions. Its mintage numbers, rarity, historical significance, and varying market values make it a prized possession for collectors and historians alike.
