1816–1839 Classic Head and Matron Head Large Cents | Middle Date U.S. Large Cents

The 1816–1839 Middle Date Large Cent series marks the second major era of early American copper coinage, bridging the gap between the early Draped Bust and late Braided Hair designs. Known for its relative accessibility and ... Read More

1816–1839 Classic Head and Matron Head Large Cents | Middle Date U.S. Large Cents

The 1816–1839 Middle Date Large Cent series marks the second major era of early American copper coinage, bridging the gap between the early Draped Bust and late Braided Hair designs. Known for its relative accessibility and rich variety landscape, this series offers collectors the opportunity to assemble complete date sets without encountering the major financial barriers often present in earlier copper issues.

Numismatic researcher Howard Newcomb famously cataloged the die varieties of this era in his seminal reference work, and today, Middle Date large cents remain a favorite for both variety specialists and type set collectors alike.

Design & Historical Context

• Obverse: The series showcases the Matron Head Liberty design, evolving stylistically throughout the period. Early issues display the classic rounded bust and coronet with LIBERTY, while later years (beginning in 1835–1836) reflect a subtle redesign with sharper detail and a more refined bust line.

• Reverse: A continuous wreath encircling the denomination ONE CENT, with the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around the rim.

The Middle Date large cents were struck exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint, with no branch mint production during this era.

Notable Dates and Varieties (1816–1839)

• 1816: First year of the Middle Date series; common and popular as the inaugural issue.

• 1817: Features a fascinating 15-star obverse variety (instead of the usual 13 stars), highly collectible.

• 1819: Offers both a 1819/8 overdate and distinct Small Date and Large Date varieties.

• 1820: Includes an 1820/19 overdate, plus Small and Large Date varieties.

• 1821: One of the tougher dates to locate, especially in higher grades.

• 1822: Generally common across all grades.

• 1823: Scarce overall, featuring a normal date, the rare 1823/2 overdate, and unofficial restrikes made from broken dies.

• 1824: Includes the 1824/2 overdate alongside normal date varieties.

• 1825: Readily available; considered a common date.

• 1826: Contains the notable 1826/5 overdate and standard issues.

• 1828: Distinct varieties exist with both Block 8 and Script 8 in the date.

• 1829–1832: All years feature Large Letter and Medium Letter reverse varieties.

• 1834–1835: Known for combinations of Large and Small 8's and Large and Small Stars.

• 1836: Obverse modified with a pointed coronet tip and narrower bust, marking a key design transition.

Collectability & Market Availability

Middle Date large cents are well-represented across all levels of the market, with many dates available in Fine to Extremely Fine grades. Certain issues, like 1817 and 1820, are more frequently encountered in higher grades due to historic hoards, making them attractive for collectors seeking eye appeal.

• About Uncirculated (AU): Scarcer but obtainable for many dates.

• Mint State (Uncirculated): Available for select dates, though true Gem Uncirculated examples remain rare across the series.

• Die Variety Collecting: Thanks to Newcomb’s research, the series invites deeper exploration into specific die marriages, overdates, and lettering styles—perfect for advanced collectors.

Why Collect Middle Date Large Cents?

• No ultra-rare “stoppers” to prevent completion of a date set.

• A blend of historical significance and affordability—ideal for both beginner and seasoned collectors.

• Rich with overdates, repunched numerals, and die state variations for variety enthusiasts.

• Completes a critical segment of a U.S. Large Cent type set, connecting early Federal coinage to later copper designs.

Explore Paradime Coins’ curated selection of certified Middle Date Large Cents, each professionally described and graded with expert attention to strike quality, surfaces, color, and eye appeal. Whether you're assembling a complete date run or seeking a single standout example for your collection, these historic large cents offer both value and collectibility.