1845 1C, BN (Proof)
The 1845 1C, BN (Proof) is an alluring coin that holds a fascinating place in numismatic history due to its extreme rarity and the intriguing era it represents. These large cents, struck in bronze, belong to the Braided Hair series designed by Christian Gobrecht, which was minted from 1839 to 1857.
The allure of the 1845 proof large cent transcends its mere age, drawing attention from collectors and historians due to its limited mintage. According to the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) CoinFacts, the mintage for the 1845 Proof Large Cent is estimated to be around 30 coins, a testament to its uncommon nature. The PCGS catalog assigns it the number 1964, further cementing its prestige in the annals of numismatics.
The Philadelphia Mint, the sole producer of this series during the period, crafted these proofs with exceptional care, ensuring that each coin had a sharp strike and mirrored fields that made them stand out from their circulation-struck counterparts. The bronze, a rich brown due to age and oxidation, contributes to the coin's BN (Brown) designation, which indicates its color classification as per PCGS standards. From the standpoint of value, 1845 1C proofs are exceedingly sought after, with collectors prepared to pay significant premiums due to their scarcity.
Pricing for this coin can vary significantly depending on its condition and the presence of any historical documentation or provenance. Instances from major numismatic auction houses like Stack's Bowers and Heritage Auctions demonstrate its value, with some specimens fetching prices that reach into the tens of thousands of dollars. Specific sales have seen these coins achieve impressive figures, highlighting their desirability and the fierce competition among collectors for well-preserved examples.
Historically, proofs from this period served a variety of purposes, including presentation pieces, to test dies, or as special collector's items sold by the Mint. The 1845 proof large cent's intricate design, with Liberty’s braided hair and the reverse wreath, showcases the meticulous artistry of Gobrecht and encapsulates the evolving numismatic trends of mid-19th-century America.
Moreover, coin aficionados appreciate the 1845 1C, BN (Proof) for its story beyond the metallic surface – it is a piece of history, linking collectors to the past with each delicate detail etched upon its surface. The rarity and historical significance embedded in these coins make them treasured possessions for any numismatist. For serious collectors and historians, the value of such coins stretches beyond monetary worth, providing a tangible connection to the craftsmanship and economic conditions of the United States during the mid-1800s.
