Numismatic

1852 Large Cent VF

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In the mid nineteenth century, American pocket change looked remarkably different than it does today. The 1852 Large Cent is a striking example of this era, minted from a nearly pure copper composition of 99.3 percent. Weighing 10.89 grams, this substantial coin represents the Braided Hair design series, which spanned the years 1839 to 1857. This specific piece has survived in Very Fine circulated condition, showing the honest wear of a coin that likely passed through many hands during the decade leading up to the American Civil War. The obverse of the coin features a left-facing profile of Liberty, her hair styled in a neat braid and secured with a diadem. This central effigy is encircled by thirteen stars, representing the original colonies. On the reverse, the words ONE CENT are boldly struck at the center, enclosed by a delicate leafy wreath. The name of the issuing nation, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, wraps around the entire reverse border. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin does not bear a mint mark, which was standard practice for the facility at the time.