1820 1C, BN (Proof)
The 1820 1C, BN (Proof) large cent is a coin of exceptional interest and rarity, highly coveted by numismatists and history enthusiasts alike. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this proof coin is part of the classic Coronet Head Large Cent series, which spans from 1816 to 1839. The 1820 proof large cent is notably rare, with the number of surviving examples estimated to be extremely low, making it a focal point for collectors.
Numismatically, the 1820 1C draws attention due to its limited mintage and the historical context of early 19th-century American coinage. The reported mintage for this proof issue is incredibly small, with estimates suggesting only a handful of examples were produced, serving primarily as presentation pieces or for inclusion in special collectors' sets. The rarity of this coin is evidenced by infrequent appearances in public auctions, where values can reach significant sums based on condition and provenance.
Market data for the 1820 1C, BN (Proof) underscores its desirability and value among collectors. As evidenced by past sales data, the coin has commanded prices ranging from tens of thousands to potentially over a hundred thousand dollars, depending on its condition, provenance, and market demand at the time of sale. High-grade examples, especially those with impeccable pedigrees, can achieve top dollar when brought to auction.
From a numismatist's perspective, the 1820 proof large cent represents more than its rarity; it's a window into early American minting processes and artistry. The meticulous detail and craftsmanship observable in proof coins from this era, including mirrored fields and sharp strike features, highlight the transitionary phase in minting techniques of the time.
The PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) CoinFacts database lists the 1820 1C proof under the PCGS number 91768, and it provides detailed insights into its known population, grading statistics, and recent auction results. According to CoinFacts, the technical specifications of the series include a weight of approximately 10.89 grams and a composition of 100% copper, consistent with large cents of the period.
The historical significance of the 1820 large cent is further enriched by the broader economic landscape of the United States during the early 1820s. The nation was transitioning in its economic practices and expanding westward, all aspects mirrored subtly in its coinage as the U.S. Mint aimed to cater to an increasing demand for durable and recognizable currency.
Collectors seek out the 1820 1C, BN (Proof) not only for its scarcity but also for its ability to convey stories of American ingenuity and progress. Each coin, limited in number and treasured for its exquisite manufacture, serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of American numismatic history. As collectors and historians examine these coins, they find themselves connected to a bygone era, a factor that consistently supports the strong interest and investment in the 1820 proof large cent.
