Flowing Hair Cent, Wreath Reverse: 1793

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Quick Coinage Facts

Years Minted: 1793
Mints: Philadelphia
Composition: Copper
Diameter: 26-28 mm
Weight: 13.48 grams
Total Mintage: approx. 63,353
Edge: some lettered, some with vine/bars

Introduction

Because of it's rather large size compared to modern cent coins, collectors commonly call cents minted from 1793 to 1857 Large Cents.

Designed and engraved by Henry Voigt, the large cent was a variation to the Chain Cent issued earlier in 1793 and had a composition of 100% copper.
The obverse design depicts an idealized head of Liberty facing right, the inscription LIBERTY appearing above the bust, a three leaf sprig appears above the date.

The reverse design has UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and has a laurel wreath of leaves and berries tied with a bow which encloses ONE CENT, and the fraction 1/100 is just below the bow.

There are no mint marks as the Philadelphia mint was the only mint during that time period so there were was no need.

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General Market Notes

Though not as rare as the Chain Cent, Wreath cents are difficult to locate and carry a premium cost that matches this difficulty. It is highly recommended NOT to purchase a raw specimen but a certified coin as there have been (still are) quite a few counterfeits produced over the years.

Even if you have the money for even a low grade (AG or G) specimen, finding one available for sale is another story. Collectors may never see one in their lifetime and may have a permanent hole in their type set. One avenue a collector can pursue is to obtain a replica coin.

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