1843 1C Petite Head, Lg Letters, BN (Regular Strike)
The 1843 1C Petite Head, Large Letters, BN (Braided Hair Large Cent) is a numismatic treasure with a fascinating blend of history and rarity that intrigues collectors. Minted at the Philadelphia Mint, this particular variety is part of the Braided Hair series, which was produced from 1839 to 1857.
The coin is notable for its "Petite Head" obverse design, characterized by a more delicate and refined portrait of Lady Liberty, accompanied by "Large Letters" on the reverse. The mintage for the 1843 Petite Head Large Letters is recorded at 2,425,342, according to PCGS CoinFacts. This makes it a relatively scarce coin, particularly in the higher grades desired by collectors. The PCGS identification number for this coin is 1847. Remarkably, those that have survived in pristine condition are highly sought after, with far fewer examples extant in mint-state, leading to their premium valuations.
From a numismatist's perspective, the 1843 Petite Head version stands out due to both its transitional design changes and its historical context. During the mid-19th century, the United States Mint was experimenting with design elements and technology, reflecting broader technological and artistic trends of the period. The 'Petite Head' was succeeded by the 'Mature Head' later in the year, adding to the coin's numismatic interest and distinction.
The value of the 1843 1C Petite Head, Large Letters, BN can vary significantly based on its condition and the specific market conditions at the time of sale. Coins in mid-grade conditions can fetch hundreds of dollars, while those in mint-state conditions often command prices in the thousands. Notably, premier auction houses have recorded sales for this coin that demonstrate its desirability. For instance, a nicely preserved specimen sold for several thousand dollars at a recent auction, a testament to its allure among collectors.
On the numismatic marketplace, these 1-cent pieces are often sought out on platforms noted for their wide-reaching numismatic auctions. The price realized in these sales underscores the comparative rarity and desirability of higher-grade specimens, especially those exemplifying the rich brown toning referred to by the BN (Brown) designation. For serious collectors, investment in an 1843 1C Petite Head Large Letters is enhanced by understanding the intricate details of its design, subtle variations in die execution, and the situational rarity of high-grade survivors from each die pairing.
Such knowledge can be gleaned from comprehensive studies and examination of examples from historical collections. Collectors and investors are thus advised to seek detailed provenance and a competent grading evaluation to ensure authenticity and maximize the potential appreciation of this historical numismatic asset. With its rich backstory, differentiated design, and the intrinsic historical appeal, the 1843 Petite Head Large Letters is more than just a coin; it is a captivating piece of American history.
