1840 1C Small/Large 18, BN (Proof)

The 1840 1C Small/Large 18, BN (Proof) is a remarkable piece in the numismatic world, known for its rarity and historical significance. This particular coin is a part of the Braided Hair cent series, crafted during a period marked by significant changes in coin design and production techniques. The Philadelphia Mint, responsible for its production, utilized experimental approaches to refine the presentation of circulating cents, making each proof coin a testament to American numismatic history. **Rarity and Mintage:** The 1840 1C Small/Large 18 is extraordinarily rare due to its limited mintage. The exact number of proofs minted isn't well documented, a common occurrence for proofs from this era, leading to their sparse availability. Numismatists appreciate the coin for its rarity as well as its transition features, as it exhibits both the Small Date and Large Date varieties within a single design. **Numismatist Insight:** For numismatists, the 1840 Proof is significant not only due to its rarity but also because it marks the evolution of the U.S. Mint's technology and artistic capabilities. The Braided Hair design by Christian Gobrecht was a refinement in response to both aesthetic preferences and technical challenges. **PCGS Information:** According to PCGS CoinFacts, this coin's database entry is associated with PCGS #1938. Experts at PCGS denote this particular proof version with a Brown (BN) designation, reflecting the coin's toning over time. This toning significantly influences the coin's appeal and value among collectors. **Value and Market Performance:** The 1840 1C Small/Large 18, BN (Proof) holds historical and aesthetic value that is reflected in its market pricing. Recent years have seen significant variations in its auction results, with sales figures highly dependent on the coin's condition, provenance, and eye appeal. Exact sales from past auctions often see these coins reaching substantial figures- sometimes upwards of tens of thousands of dollars- when they surface at auction. This performance underscores the coin's allure to collectors and its status as a prized piece for anyone building a comprehensive collection of U.S. coinage. **Historical Context:** The year 1840 was a pivotal time for the U.S. Mint, as it sought to refine coin production methods and standardize its designs. Coins from this period reflect a blend of craftsmanship and the industrial revolution's advancements, making them unique learning points for numismatists interested in the evolution of U.S. coinage. For detailed insights into prior sales and extensive numismatist commentary, resources such as ha.com provide thorough documentation and additional historical background without making this piece accessible only to those specific platforms. The synthesis of this information presents a comprehensive view of the coin's standing today, catering to enthusiasts and serious collectors alike.