Numismatic

1814 Large Cent Plain 4 Good

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The year 1814 marked a fascinating moment in early American coining, represented beautifully by this copper Large Cent. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this particular variety is known as the Plain 4, distinguished by the specific style of the final digit in the date. Despite the passage of more than two centuries, the coin retains its essential character, showing the wear and history expected of a piece graded in Good condition. On the obverse, the coin displays the Classic Head Liberty design, a creation of John Reich. Liberty faces right, her hair bound by a band, with the date 1814 clearly visible below the bust. This design represents a distinct artistic era in early United States copper coinage, preceding the major design transitions of the mid-nineteenth century. The reverse of the coin features a delicate wreath enclosing the denomination, which is spelled out as ONE CENT. Circling the wreath along the outer border is the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. With a total mintage of 357,830 for the year, this copper cent offers a tangible connection to the daily commerce of the early American republic.