1842 1C, BN (Proof)

The 1842 1C, BN (Proof) Coronet Head Large Cent is a remarkable and rare piece in the history of U.S. numismatics, notable for its rarity and fine craftsmanship. From a numismatist’s perspective, this coin represents a significant era in American coinage, embodying the artistic and historical value of early 19th-century U.S. Mint practices. **Mint and Mintage:** The 1842 Proof Large Cents were minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the only mint producing large cents at the time. The exact mintage numbers of the Proof coins from 1842 are unrecorded. Estimates suggest that the mintage may be less than two dozen, making it an extremely rare find for collectors. **PCGS CoinFacts Details:** According to PCGS CoinFacts, the coin is cataloged under the PCGS #1946. The lack of a clear record for Proof mintages during this period adds to the mystique and allure for collectors, as few were produced and even fewer have survived in high grade. **Rarity and History:** The rarity of the 1842 1C, BN Proof large cent is largely due to its limited production and the scarcity of surviving specimens. During the early 1840s, Proof coins were not intended for public circulation but were instead produced in very limited numbers for VIPs, collectors, or as trial pieces. As a result, these coins were often made with high precision, showcasing sharp details and exceptional craftsmanship. The rarity is further increased by the fact that many of these coins were lost, melted, or tarnished over time. **Value and Auction Records:** The 1842 1C, BN (Proof) can fetch significant prices at auctions, reflecting its desirability and rarity. For instance, high-grade examples have been known to sell for substantial amounts in recent years. When considering auction platforms, sales have showcased values upwards of tens of thousands of dollars, sometimes realizing prices in the six-figure region when the condition is pristine and the provenance is rich. The market for such coins remains robust, as numismatists and investors alike seek the historical significance and limited availability of the 1842 Proof Large Cent. **Historical Significance:** The Coronet Head design by Christian Gobrecht, which was used for the large cent from 1816 to 1857, represented a period where artistry and craftsmanship were at the forefront of American coin design. The 1842 issue highlights the transition period of the American minting process and the changing designs that would soon follow in the latter half of the 19th century. Overall, the 1842 1C, BN Proof large cent not only holds immense numismatic value but also serves as a tangible piece of American history, captivating collectors with its rarity, artistic value, and historical significance. As a testament to a bygone era of American minting, it continues to be a centerpiece for advanced collectors and historians alike.