1819 1C Small Date, BN
The 1819 1C Small Date, BN (Regular Strike) is a fascinating coin for collectors and numismatists, primarily due to its low mintage and the intricate details that distinguish it from other coin variations. The Philadelphia Mint, which was the sole mint in operation at the time, produced this particular cent. Collectors hold this coin in high esteem because of its historical significance and scarcity.
Mint and Mintage
The mintage of the 1819 1C Small Date is estimated at 2,671,000 pieces. Within this small mintage, the Small Date variety is notably rarer than its Large Date counterpart. The "BN" designation signifies a Brown coloration, a characteristic that involves natural toning over copper coins as they age.
Description and Characteristics
The 1819 1C Small Date is part of the Coronet Head series of Large Cents. Featuring Lady Liberty with a matronly appearance, this design was employed from 1816 to 1839. On the obverse, Liberty faces left, adorned with a coronet, and the word "LIBERTY" inscribed on the band. Thirteen stars encircle the design, representing the original states. The reverse includes the denomination "ONE CENT", surrounded by a laurel wreath, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" inscribed along the rim. The Small Date variety can be identified through the date's numeral arrangement, which is grouped more closely and features smaller, less pronounced digits. This subtle variance can be challenging for new collectors to distinguish without a keen eye or magnification tools.
Rarity and Value
Due to its low mintage and the difficulty in obtaining well-preserved examples, the 1819 1C Small Date commands a significant premium in the collector market. As of recent auctions and sales records, prices for this coin can vary significantly depending on its condition. Pieces in lower grades, like Good (G-4), might sell for a few hundred dollars, while those in higher grades, such as Mint State (MS-65 RB), can reach thousands of dollars. Noteworthy auction results highlight the coin’s desirability. For instance, a specimen graded MS-64 BN might achieve approximately $4,000 to $6,000 at prominent auctions. Moreover, exceptionally high-grade pieces or those with a noteworthy provenance often stir competitive bidding among collectors.
Historical Context
From a numismatist's perspective, the 1819 1C Small Date reflects the post-War of 1812 economic era in the United States. The period was marked by rapid growth and industrial advancements, captured in the coinage of the era. Large Cents, in particular, were essential in everyday transactions, thus experiencing significant circulation wear.
PCGS Details
According to PCGS Coin Facts, the 1819 1C Small Date carries the number 1606. This identification aids collectors and professionals when cataloging and authenticating coins.
Collecting the 1819 1C Small Date
When hunting for the 1819 1C Small Date, collectors should be aware of the intricate conditions and nuances in grading Large Cents. As copper coins, they are prone to various environmental effects, impacting factors like color, luster, and surface quality. Choice examples, free from corrosion or major flaws, are highly sought after. For those passionate about the Coronet Head series, adding an 1819 1C Small Date is a pursuit filled with both challenge and reward, encapsulating a slice of 19th-century American monetary history.
