Numismatic

1855 Large Cent Upright 5's VF

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In 1855, the United States Mint produced a copper large cent that captures a transitional moment in American coinage. This particular variety is distinguished by the upright styling of the number five in the date, contrasting with other slanted variations of the era. Struck in pure copper at the Philadelphia Mint, this substantial coin represents the final years of the large cent format before the nation transitioned to smaller, more convenient penny sizes. The obverse features a classic representation of Liberty, facing left with her hair bound by a band. Below this portrait, the date 1855 is clearly struck, displaying the characteristic upright orientation of the final two digits. The reverse of the coin is framed by the bold inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" running along the perimeter. Nestled inside a delicate wreath at the center is the denomination "ONE CENT", emphasizing the utilitarian purpose of this early American copper piece.