1820 1C Small Date, BN
The 1820 1C Small Date, BN (Regular Strike) is a significant copper coin for numismatists, offering insight into early 19th-century American coinage. This particular variant, produced at the Philadelphia Mint, features a small date in its design, distinguishing it from its large date counterpart minted the same year.
With a total mintage of approximately 4,407,550 large cents for 1820, the Small Date variety is relatively scarce, making it a desirable piece for collectors. The rarity is attributed to the nuanced design changes and lower survival rates, as copper coins were often circulated extensively and subjected to wear.
In terms of value, coins in the lower grades such as Good-4 can fetch moderate prices, though as condition improves, the value increases significantly. Mid-range grades like Fine-12 and Very Fine-20 often see higher prices, and coins in grades like Extremely Fine-40 and higher can achieve premium prices. Auction records indicate that the 1820 Small Date cent in Mint State condition can reach several thousand dollars, depending on the specific grade and eye appeal.
The historical context of the 1820 1C Small Date contributes to its collector appeal. During this era, designs and minting techniques were evolving, with the cent still being one of the foundational coins in regular American commerce. This period also reflects the challenges of early American mints in maintaining consistent quality and quantity in coin production.
From an aesthetical perspective, the coin displays typical characteristics of large cents from the era, with Liberty's profile on the obverse and a wreath encircling the denomination on the reverse. The alluring patina that develops on circulated coins adds a unique charm to each specimen, particularly in the Brown (BN) color designation.
The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) assigns the 1820 1C Small Date the PCGS #91615. Their data robustly supports price determinations and grading evaluations, ensuring this variant's proper classification and valuation.
Particular auction highlights illustrate the potential value; coins with exceptional provenance or superior state of preservation often stand out in sales. While millions were initially produced, the combination of numismatic interest and limited surviving pristine examples bolsters both demand and value.
Collectors often rely on thorough databases and expert insights from resources similar to those found on coinfacts.com to track pricing trends, historical context, and grading specifics, which enhance understanding and facilitate informed purchasing decisions. The rarity and historical significance play a vital role in the enduring allure of the 1820 1C Small Date, BN among numismatists.
