1846 1C Medium Date, BN (Regular Strike) Large Cent Overview
The 1846 1C Medium Date, BN (Brown) Large Cent is a captivating coin that draws attention due to its distinctive characteristics and intriguing history. This piece belongs to the Braided Hair Large Cent series, which was minted from 1839 to 1857. Recognized by its unique date size and styling, the Medium Date variety has earned a place of interest among numismatists and collectors alike.
Mint and Mintage
The 1846 Braided Hair Large Cent was minted in Philadelphia, which was the sole mint location for large cents during this era. The total mintage for the 1846 Large Cent stands at 2,690,463 coins. However, it is important to note that this mintage figure encompasses both the Small Date and Medium Date varieties, with the Medium Date being relatively more elusive in higher-grade examples.
PCGS Information
The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) assigns the 1846 Medium Date, BN Large Cent a specific identification number for classification and cataloging purposes, which is PCGS #1868. This helps collectors and dealers accurately identify and assess the coin.
Variety and Rarity
The 1846 1C Medium Date can be distinguished by examining the size and placement of the numerals in the date. In comparison to its Small Date counterpart, the Medium Date variety features numerals that are slightly larger and evenly spaced. The design elements, including Miss Liberty's portrait and the reverse wreath, are consistent with other Braided Hair Large Cents of the era. In terms of rarity, while the 1846 Large Cent, in general, is not exceedingly rare, the Medium Date variant becomes significantly more challenging to find in higher grades, especially in Brown (BN) condition. Many examples were subject to circulation wear, making well-preserved specimens highly sought after by collectors.
Value and Recent Sales
The value of the 1846 1C Medium Date, BN varies depending on its condition, with factors such as luster, strike sharpness, and color retention playing crucial roles in determining price. In circulated grades, the coin can range from approximately $25 to $150. However, in uncirculated conditions, the value can reach upwards of several hundred dollars or more, particularly for coins with exceptional eye appeal and minimal surface marks. Significant auction sales have highlighted the demand for the 1846 Medium Date. For instance, coins that have achieved top grades by PCGS and exhibited superior surfaces have realized prices well into the high hundreds of dollars at auctions.
Numismatic Perspective and History
From a numismatist's point of view, the 1846 Medium Date Large Cent is an essential study in early American minting practices. It reflects the transitional phases in U.S. coinage design and the technological advancements in die production. The Braided Hair design, introduced by Chief Engraver Christian Gobrecht, marked the final iteration of large cents before the switch to the smaller Flying Eagle Cents in 1857. This change was prompted by the economic impracticality of minting large copper cents, further enhancing the historical importance of the 1846 Medium Date. For collectors and investors, the 1846 Medium Date, BN Large Cent offers a fascinating blend of historical significance, scarcity in higher grades, and aesthetic appeal, making it a prized addition to any collection focused on early American copper coinage. Its story is not only about monetary transactions of the 19th century but also a testament to the evolving artistry and manufacturing prowess of the United States Mint.
