Numismatic

1837 Large Cent Head of 1838 Beaded Cord Fine

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During the late 1830s, the United States Mint produced copper cents that underwent subtle design transitions. This particular 1837 copper large cent showcases the design style often referred to as the Head of 1838, which is distinguished by a delicate beaded cord in the hair of Liberty. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin represents a fascinating moment in early American copper coinage, bridging the design variations of the late Coronet head era. The obverse of the coin displays a left-facing profile of Liberty, her hair bound by a cord decorated with beads. She is surrounded by thirteen stars representing the original colonies, with the date 1837 positioned at the bottom. The word LIBERTY is clearly inscribed upon her hairband. On the reverse, the denomination ONE CENT is centered within a continuous leafy wreath. Encircling this central design is the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. This specimen has survived in Fine to Very Good condition, offering a clear look at the artistry of early American engravers like Robert Scot or John Reich, whose work defined the look of the nation's early circulating currency.