1808/7 1/2C, BN
The 1808/7 1/2 Cent, BN (Regular Strike), is a captivating numismatic piece cherished by collectors for its historical significance and rarity. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this overdate coin is part of the Classic Head series and holds a special appeal due to its unique minting characteristics and low mintage.
Historical Context and Production The 1808/7 1/2 Cent represents an intriguing point in early American coinage. The Classic Head design, introduced by John Reich, reflects a transition in American numismatic artistry. The "1808/7" overdate error results from the Mint's practice of repurposing dies to save costs, combining the digits '7' and '8' during the preparation of the coin. This particular fineness of detail makes it highly sought after among numismatists.
Minting Details and Mintage Minted at the Philadelphia facility, the 1808/7 1/2 Cent carries a reported mintage of only 400,000 pieces, contributing to its rarity. As a scarce item, its precise production figures bolster its allure for collectors, along with its captivating historical perspectives.
Mint : Philadelphia
Mintage : 400,000
PCGS Number : 1110
Rarity The rarity of the 1808/7 1/2 Cent arises not only from its limited mintage but also from the relatively few examples that survive today in collectible condition. The wear and circulation over time, common among coins of this era, have further diminished its availability.
Value and Notable Sales The market value of this coin varies widely, depending on its condition, provenance, and historical appeal. Prices at auction often reflect its scarcity and desirability.
Fine Condition : Typically trades for several hundred dollars, highlighting the demand for even lower-grade examples.
Very Fine and Above : In higher grades, the coin fetches prices that can ascend to the thousands, achieving top-dollar premiums in exceptional, well-preserved states. Several auctions have seen the 1808/7 1/2 Cent fetch impressive results: - A sale held at a prestigious auction house recorded a price of over $10,000 for a specimen exhibiting superior preservation and eye appeal. - Another renowned auction recorded the sale of a well-maintained example for approximately $5,500, demonstrating persistent interest from collectors.
Insights from Numismatist Analysis From the numismatist's perspective, the 1808/7 1/2 Cent is not just a collectible but a narrative encapsulated in copper. It presents an artistic transition and technological story within U.S. minting history. The overdate feature highlights both the ingenuity and the economic constraints of the early 19th-century Mint, making it a telling artifact of American coin heritage.
Additional Information For coin collectors and enthusiasts, the 1808/7 1/2 Cent stands as a testament to early U.S. Mint practices and the evolution of American coinage. Accessing detailed specifications and auction insights can be beneficial for collectors looking to deepen their understanding of this numismatic treasure, as found on dedicated numismatic platforms. The quest to secure such a rare piece involves not just a financial investment but a journey into the annals of U.S. monetary history, connecting collectors with the era that gave birth to the very foundations of American currency.
