Numismatic

1856 Large Cent Slanted 5 XF

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The year 1856 marked a fascinating moment in American copper coinage, captured beautifully in this Large Cent variety. Struck in pure copper at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin belongs to a classic era of United States currency before the transition to smaller cent pieces. It represents a tangible look at mid nineteenth century manufacturing, characterized by a distinct design variety where the number five in the date slants noticeably to the right. The front of the coin displays the Liberty portrait, styled in the Classic Head design. Her profile is framed by stars, with the crucial 1856 date positioned directly below her bust. This specific variety is highly regarded for the angled orientation of the digit five, a detail that sets it apart from other issues of the same year. On the reverse, a delicate wreath encircles the denomination, which is spelled out as One Cent. Encircling this central wreath is the bold inscription reading United States of America. This specimen survives in Extra Fine condition, preserving the crisp details of Christian Gobrecht's engraving work, from the individual leaves in the wreath to the sharp lines of the Liberty portrait.