A Numismatic Journey: Exploring Early Large Cents and Historic Coinage

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1793-96 Liberty Cap Cent

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The timeless elegance of the Liberty Cap large cents of 1793-1796 (on eBay) unfolds the enchanting tale of early American copper coinage. As the Philadelphia Mint's third attempt at a lasting cent design, these coins marked a pivotal moment in the young nation's numismatic history. Crafted by the skilled hands of Joseph Wright, an acclaimed portraitist, the Liberty Cap cent sought to win over a nation that was just beginning to embrace the concept of Federal coinage.

At the time of its creation, copper cents were still a novelty for most Americans, who primarily used Spanish milled dollars, state copper coins, and private tokens in their daily transactions. Wright understood the importance of public acceptance, especially after the initial backlash against the Chain cent. Drawing inspiration from French medalist Augustin Dupre's revered Libertas Americana Medal, Wright brilliantly reimagined Liberty, adorning her with the Phrygian cap that symbolized freedom and emancipation.

With its refined design, the Liberty Cap cent became a symbol of French support for the American cause, commemorating victories at Saratoga and Yorktown. As the first Wright coins emerged, they featured higher relief and distinctive beaded borders on the obverse, later transitioning to denticled borders. On the edges, the coins bore the incuse inscription "ONE HUNDRED FOR A Dollar," culminating in a delicate leaf.

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the captivating allure of the Liberty Cap large cents, where history and numismatic artistry intertwine in a dazzling display of early American coinage.

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The large cents of the United States have a rich and fascinating history, attracting passionate collectors and researchers over the years. From the 19th century to the present day, experts have dedicated themselves to studying and cataloging the various varieties of these coins. Early American Coppers Club (EAC) stands as a testament to the dedication of collectors worldwide.

The 1793 and 1794 large cent varieties have received significant attention, with scholars like Sylvester S. Crosby and Dr. William H. Sheldon providing invaluable contributions. Sheldon's work, "Early American Cents," has become a standard reference for cents minted between 1793 and 1814, known as "Sheldon numbers."

The 1795 cents had a reduced weight due to rising copper prices, resulting in plain edges. Sheldon's listings included the controversial "Jefferson Head" cent, believed by some to be privately struck as patterns for a coinage contract sought by John Harper.

The original Wright design continued into early 1794 before being modified by Robert Scot, who introduced the Liberty Cap design with a much lower relief. Several rare varieties, such as the Starred Reverse and the Missing Fraction Bar, exist within this series. The Liberty Cap design eventually gave way to Scot's interpretation of Gilbert Stuart's Draped Bust motif in mid-1796.

During the period from 1793 to 1796, the Philadelphia Mint produced over 1.5 million Liberty Cap cents (on eBay). While most coins encountered today range from Good to Very Fine, coins from 1793 are the rarest, while those from 1795 and 1796 are more readily available in high grade and are often sought by type collectors. Natural patinas are essential in determining the value of these coins, and higher grade examples are particularly desirable.

The history of coin collecting in the United States dates back to the efforts of Joseph J. Mickley and Edward Cogan, among others, who popularized the hobby in the country. Cogan, America's first coin dealer, supplied large cents to new collectors, contributing to the growth of this exciting field of collecting.

Specifications

Content: 100% copper

Designer 1793: Robert Scot

Designer 1794: Joseph Wright / Robert Scot

Designer 1795-1796: Robert Scot

* There are 2 different possible edges:

Lettered: ONE HUNDRED FOR A DOLLAR with one leaf after DOLLAR, leaf points down
Lettered: ONE HUNDRED FOR A DOLLAR with one leaf after DOLLAR, leaf points up

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1793-96 Liberty Cap Cent

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Specifications

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