1855 1C Upright 55, BN (Regular Strike)

The 1855 1C Upright 55, BN (Regular Strike) is a fascinating coin for numismatists and collectors, stemming from an era when the U.S. Mint was refining its manufacturing processes. This one-cent coin, part of the Braided Hair series, embodies both historical value and intrigue. Minted in Philadelphia, the 1855 1C marks a significant phase before the transformation to smaller-sized pennies. **Minting and Mintage Details:** - Mint: Philadelphia - Mintage: 1,574,829 - PCGS Number: 1900 For enthusiasts, the rarity of this coin is substantial due to its limited production run and the unique characteristics of the "Upright 55" in the date, compared to other variations like the "Slanted 55." The specific legibility and positioning of the numeral "55" make it desirable and a topic of discussion among advanced collectors. **Collectible Value:** In terms of value, the 1855 1C Upright 55, BN is sought after in various states of preservation, from Good (G) to Mint State (MS). Its value can fluctuate significantly, depending on its condition, rarity, eye appeal, and color designation (BN - Brown). For instance, coins graded as MS typically fetch higher prices, sometimes reaching into the thousands of dollars at specialized auctions. **Historical and Numismatic Significance:** The 1855 1C plays a vital role in the history of U.S. coinage. This time marked the last years of the Large Cents before transitioning to the smaller cent designs, notably the Flying Eagle cent in 1856. Collectors value this date due to its artistic appeal and its illustration of mid-19th-century American currency design and production. **Market Sales:** Regarding auction records and market sales, the value variance for the 1855 1C Upright 55, BN can be substantial, influenced largely by its grading. Blue-chip coins of this nature have been sold at premier auction houses for prices that reflect both their condition and historical allure. Examples have seen transactions from hundreds to over a thousand USD, depending on factors like strike quality and preservation state. Coins with higher PCGS ratings generally achieve premium results. **Numismatist Perspective:** From an expert's viewpoint, the 1855 1C Upright 55 is not just a token of exchange but a piece of history that encapsulates the socio-economic conditions of its time. Collectors deeply appreciate its artistic numismatic features, and the allure of possessing a coin from an era foundational to U.S. history adds intrinsic value beyond its face value. Overall, the 1855 1C Upright 55, BN remains a prized piece for those engrossed in the extensive chronology of U.S. cents—not just for its age or monetary worth, but for the story it tells of a bygone age and its enduring legacy among numismatists today.