1818 1C, BN (Regular Strike)
The 1818 1C, BN (Regular Strike) Large Cent is a fascinating coin for collectors and historians alike. Minted in the Philadelphia Mint, this coin is part of the Coronet Head series, which ran from 1816 to 1839. The 1818 Large Cent epitomizes early 19th-century American coinage with its intricate design by Robert Scot, featuring Liberty with her hair pulled back and adorned with a band inscribed "LIBERTY," surrounded by thirteen stars representing the original colonies.
Rarity and Mintage
The 1818 Large Cent, particularly in Brown (BN) finish, is sought after for its relative availability and appeal within the Coronet Head series. The total mintage for the 1818 Large Cent was approximately 3,167,000 pieces. This relatively high mintage for the era means that the coin is not exceedingly rare in lower grades; however, higher-grade specimens can be elusive and command substantial premiums.
Value and Sales
In terms of value, the 1818 Large Cent varies significantly depending on its condition. Coins with significant wear might be valued at modest amounts, fitting any entry-level collection budget. However, pieces in higher grades, such as Mint State (MS), can fetch significant prices. Recent sales have shown that an MS-64 grade coin might sell for over $10,000, depending on the auction and market trends. These high-grade pieces gain attention from serious collectors and investors looking to complete their collections with quality examples.
Historical Perspective
Historical context is vital for understanding the 1818 Large Cent's place in American numismatic history. This coin emerged during a time of substantial growth and change in the United States. As the nation was recovering and consolidating its identity post-War of 1812, the coinage represented stability and continuity. From a numismatist's perspective, the 1818 Large Cent serves as a crucial link in the evolution of U.S. currency design. It marked a departure from the earlier Draped Bust design and heralded a new era with its Coronet motif. For collectors, it is appreciated not only as a piece of currency but also as a piece of art that encapsulates early 19th-century ideals and aesthetics.
PCGS Information
According to PCGS CoinFacts, the 1818 1C Large Cent has been assigned the PCGS number 1600. PCGS, or the Professional Coin Grading Service, provides a standardized grading scale that evaluates the coin's condition, authenticity, and quality, making it an indispensable resource for collectors.
Additional Information
Although not referenced directly, popular auction sites known for coin sales, such as Stacks Bowers and Heritage Auctions, often feature 1818 Large Cents in varied conditions. Observing auction trends from these platforms provides insight into the market's behavior and helps collectors gauge the potential future value of this sought-after coin. Furthermore, insights from these sales show that the rarity in higher grades and strong historical interest consistently drive demand. In summary, the 1818 1C, BN (Regular Strike) Large Cent remains a cherished coin amongst numismatists. Its combination of historical significance, design appeal, and market value ensures that it continues to be a pivotal piece of American numismatic collections.
