Numismatic

1843 Large Cent Petite Head, Sm Letters VF

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In 1843, the United States Mint produced a distinctive variety of the copper one-cent piece known to enthusiasts as the Petite Head with small letters. This coin belongs to the celebrated Braided Hair series, which spanned the years 1839 to 1857. Struck in Philadelphia, this particular specimen has survived in Very Fine circulated condition, preserving the subtle details of its mid-nineteenth-century craftsmanship. The obverse displays a classic effigy of Liberty, her hair bound in a neat braid, encircled by thirteen stars representing the original colonies. Below the portrait, the date 1843 is clearly visible. The reverse features the denomination "ONE CENT" nested inside a continuous laurel wreath, which is itself encircled by the legend "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA". This design represents the collaborative legacy of early engravers Robert Scot and John Reich, offering a tangible link to the young nation's early monetary system.