1857 1C Small Date, BN (Regular Strike)

The 1857 1C Small Date, BN (Braided Hair Large Cent) is a numismatic treasure and a significant piece of American coinage history. The coin marks the final year of the large cent series, which was about to be replaced by the smaller Flying Eagle cent. With a mintage of 333,546, the 1857 Braided Hair variety is notably scarce, particularly in higher grades, making it a sought-after piece for collectors with an affinity for classic U.S. coins. The "Small Date" variety is distinguished by a more compact and slightly different numeral size compared to its counterpart, the "Large Date." Braided Hair large cents, minted at the Philadelphia Mint, encapsulate a rich history from when the U.S. economy was transitioning and preparing for a change in small coinage. Their historical context, combined with their limited mintage, lends them a compelling story for numismatists. This year marked the end of an era, as the transition to smaller, nickel-copper coins was driven by practicality and a shift in metal economics. On the open market, the value of an 1857 1C Small Date, BN can vary significantly depending on its grade. Collectors should note that prices realized at auction can fetch higher than market averages, especially for coins graded by major certifying agencies with a pedigree or those with attractive toning and surfaces. For instance, coins in the higher Mint State grades can command a premium due to their scarcity and historical significance. The PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) recognizes the 1857 1C Small Date, BN under the PCGS number 1916. Among collectors and within the market, this particular variety has seen impressive sales on numerous auction platforms. For example, specimens graded at MS65 or higher have been known to achieve substantial figures due to the scarcity of such high-quality examples. The Brown (BN) designation, which indicates the toning of the copper, also plays a role in valuation as it contrasts with Red (RD) and Red Brown (RB) designations that many collectors seek. From a numismatic perspective, the coin represents a turning point in minting practices and economic considerations of the mid-19th century in America. Its reduced mintage and distinct variety have earned it a place of prominence among U.S. large cents, appealing to both seasoned and new collectors. The intricate tale of its inception, rapid obsolescence, and subsequent demand fuels the intrigue and continuing interest in these historical coins. Collectors should be diligent in authenticating specimens due to the notorious variability in condition and potential for counterfeits often encountered with high-value, older coins.