1853 1C, BN (Proof)

The 1853 1C, BN (Proof) is a remarkable coin for numismatists and collectors alike, highlighting the rich history of U.S. coinage. Minted in the Philadelphia Mint, this coin is part of the Braided Hair Large Cent series, which was struck between 1839 and 1857. Notably known as “Braided Hair,” this series represents a significant era in American numismatics, as the country transitioned into more modern coinage systems. **Mintage and Rarity** The 1853 1C, BN (Proof) is extraordinarily rare due to its limited mintage. According to PCGS CoinFacts, only a mere 5-10 proofs were originally produced, making each surviving specimen highly sought after. Its rarity stems from the fact that proof coins were seldom made in large numbers during this period, often reserved for collectors, dignitaries, and museum collections. **PCGS Details** The PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) #1959 designation is assigned to this coin. As one of the most trusted grading services in the numismatic community, PCGS provides valuable information that collectors and investors heavily rely on when assessing a coin's authenticity and condition. **Value and Sales** The value of the 1853 1C, BN (Proof) varies depending on its condition and rarity, typically realizing significant sums at auction. In recent years, sales of this highly coveted coin have fetched well over $10,000, with particular specimens reaching higher due to their impeccable state and historical significance. These sales evidence the coin’s value as both a collectible piece of history and an investment. **Notable Auction Sales** In several prestigious auctions, the 1853 1C, BN (Proof) has garnered attention. For example, a well-preserved specimen once realized a price exceeding $25,000, showcasing the coin's capacity to appreciate in value significantly over time. Such high-profile sales are often seen in major auction houses, reflecting the ongoing demand for this piece among serious collectors. **Numismatic History and Significance** From a numismatist’s perspective, the 1853 Braided Hair Proof Cent is emblematic of mid-19th century American aesthetics. The coin’s design features Miss Liberty with her hair styled in a braid, surrounded by 13 stars representing the original colonies. The coin’s reverse displays a wreath — a common design element of the era — encompassing the denomination of "ONE CENT." Its intricate design and rarity make it a focal point for those interested in the artistic and cultural heritage of U.S. coinage. Additionally, the coin’s history is enriched by its context: 1853 was a period of economic growth and territorial expansion in the United States, and maintaining such a coin offers a tangible connection to this transformative period. **Conclusion** The 1853 1C, BN (Proof) offers a unique blend of rarity, historical importance, and aesthetic appeal. It remains a critical component for collectors focusing on 19th-century American proof coinage. Its limited mintage and the rising interest in historical coins contribute to its enduring allure in the numismatic community. As auction records continue to reflect the coin's increasing value, the 1853 1C, BN (Proof) stands as a testament to the rich legacy of U.S. coinage and its ongoing narrative through collectors’ passions and investment strategies.