1854 1C, BN (Regular Strike)

The 1854 1C, BN (Brown) is a captivating piece of numismatic history from the series of Braided Hair Large Cents, which were minted from 1839 to 1857. This particular coin was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the sole mint for these large cents up to 1857. The 1854 Large Cent is distinct with its elegant design by Christian Gobrecht, featuring the iconic Liberty head with braided hair on the obverse and a simple yet classic wreath on the reverse. The mintage for the 1854 Braided Hair Large Cent was approximately 4,236,156, making it relatively common compared to earlier large cents. Despite its higher mintage, the 1854 Large Cent still holds significant appeal among collectors, largely due to its historical context and the artistic representation of Liberty, as well as the transitionary period it represents before the introduction of smaller cents. This coin holds a particularly interesting position in U.S. coin history, as it was minted during a period of significant economic expansion and just a few years before the cessation of large cent production in favor of the smaller Flying Eagle cents in 1857. As such, it's a tangible artifact from an era of change in the U.S. monetary system. In terms of rarity, while circulated examples are fairly common in the marketplace, uncirculated and high-grade specimens are much scarcer and therefore more sought after. The 1854 1C, BN coins often suffer from uneven strikes and planchet issues, which can impact the coin's overall appeal and value. Collectors prize examples that exhibit strong details and minimal surface issues. Market values for the 1854 Large Cent in Brown (BN) reflect its collectibility. Prices can vary widely based on condition, with well-circulated coins being quite affordable, while those in mint state can command significant premiums. For instance, as observed in some high-profile auction sales, a mint state example of the 1854 1C BN might sell for upwards of several hundred dollars, depending on its grade and eye appeal. Key sales have demonstrated that quality specimens can fetch impressive sums, with some high-grade examples reaching thousands at auction. From a numismatic standpoint, the fascination with the 1854 Large Cent extends beyond its economic value. Its role during a transformative time in American coinage, along with its design attributes, makes it a cherished item for collectors and historians alike. According to PCGS CoinFacts, the PCGS number for the 1854 1C, BN is 1884. Collectors often refer to resources such as PCGS CoinFacts for detailed data on mintage, coin survival rates, and price guides to better inform their purchasing and collecting strategies. Owners and collectors of the 1854 1C, BN enjoy not just the aesthetic pleasure of the coin, but also the deep historical narrative it represents. As a piece that has survived for over a century and a half, it continues to enchant with its enduring legacy as part of America's numismatic heritage.