1839/6 1C, BN (Regular Strike)

The 1839/6 1C, BN (Brown) is an intriguing and rare coin that captivates collectors with its unique history and limited availability. Known primarily for the distinct overdate error, where the "9" in the date appears prominently over an underlying "6," it stands as an emblem of the early minting practices and their occasional quirks. This coin belongs to the Braided Hair series of large cents, struck by the U.S. Mint. ### Mint and Mintage The 1839/6 overdate was minted at the Philadelphia Mint. The mintage figures for the general 1839 large cent are approximately 3,128,661, though exact figures for the overdate error are unknown due to the absence of such records during that period. Its scarcity is determined not by recorded numbers but by the surviving specimens and their presence in auctions and collections. ### Rarity and Value The rarity of the 1839/6 1C contributes significantly to its value. As an error coin, it holds a special place among numismatists and collectors of early American copper coins. Even in lower-grade conditions, it commands a premium over other large cents from the same era. **Value and Auction Sales:** - The value of the 1839/6 1C can vary widely based on condition. In a lower grade, such as Good (G-4), the coin can attract prices ranging from $500 to $1,000. - In higher grades like Extremely Fine (XF-40), prices soar into the thousands. - Notable auction sales have seen examples graded as Mint State (MS-60 and above) fetching upwards of $10,000 or more, underscoring its desirability among collectors. Specific prices can fluctuate based on factors such as the collector market at the time and the specific quality of the coin offered. ### Coin Grading and PCGS Information - **PCGS Number:** 1752 – This identifier is used by the Professional Coin Grading Service to catalog and authenticate the 1839/6 1C, BN. Given the rarity, many surviving 1839/6 large cents show significant wear, which indicates their circulation during the time. The brown coloration ("BN") is a result of natural aging and oxidation of the copper, a typical characteristic for coins of this era. ### Historical Context From a numismatic perspective, the 1839/6 1C is not only a valuable piece due to its overdate but also important in studying the mint's practices during that time. The transition from the earlier Classic Head to the Braided Hair type was occurring in the 1830s, and minting techniques were evolving. These overdate instances offer a glimpse into the production challenges of early U.S. coinage. Collectors prize the 1839/6 not only for its rarity but also for the story it tells. As a reflection of a bygone era of American minting, it holds significant historical value. Specialists often look for specific qualities such as the clarity of the overdate, surface preservation, and detail retention to assess its overall appeal and desirability. The allure of the 1839/6 1C lies in its combination of historical significance, rarity, and the fascinating story that it encapsulates about the early practices of the U.S. Mint. As a result, it remains a prominent target for coin collectors and historians alike.