Numismatic

1817 Large Cent Good (13 Stars)

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In the early decades of American coinage, the Philadelphia Mint produced substantial copper pieces that circulated widely in daily commerce. Among these is the 1817 Large Cent, a heavy copper coin that represents a fascinating era of early United States currency. This particular issue features the distinctive Matron Head portrait of Liberty on its obverse, surrounded by thirteen stars representing the original colonies. The reverse of the coin displays a classic wreath design enclosing the denomination. The perimeter is inscribed with the country's name, while the center clearly displays the value. Though struck in Philadelphia, the coin bears no mint mark, which was standard practice for the facility at the time.