Numismatic

1817 Large Cent 13 Stars Fine

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In the early decades of United States coinage, the copper one cent piece was a heavy, substantial coin that looked and felt vastly different from the pennies we use today. The 1817 edition of this large cent showcases a classic Liberty Head portrait on its obverse, surrounded by a ring of thirteen stars that represent the original colonies. This particular specimen survived decades of circulation to be preserved in Fine condition, showcasing the honest wear of early American commerce. On the reverse, a simple yet elegant wreath encircles the denomination of ONE CENT. Around the outer border, the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is clearly struck. Minted in Philadelphia, this copper issue had a total production of 3,948,400 pieces, serving as a workhorse of daily trade during the era.