1838 Matron Head (Coronet Head) Large Cent
United States Mint · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money
Era / Decade
Late 1830s (1838). Specifically, the 'Modified' Matron Head design introduced late in the series.
Material
Pure copper. High-quality heavy planchet typical of early 19th-century US coinage.
Condition
Good to Very Good (G-VG details). The coin shows significant circulation wear with flattened stars and hair details, but the date and 'LIBERTY' remain clearly legible. Surface shows dark patination and some environmental pitting/corrosion.
Demand Level
Strong. Early US copper coins have a dedicated and consistent buyer base among numismatists and history buffs.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $18, Mid: $28, High: $45 (Prices vary significantly based on whether a collector identifies a specific die variety).
Estimated Retail Value
Original face value of $0.01; modern Numismatic replacement value is approximately $25 - $45.
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sold listings for 1838 Large Cents in similar G-VG condition range from $22 to $35. Specimens with smoother surfaces (less pitting) reach $50+.
Description
Authentic 1838 US Large Cent featuring the Matron Head / Coronet Head design by Christian Gobrecht. This copper cent is larger than a modern quarter and represents a piece of pre-Civil War American history. The obverse features Liberty with a coronet, surrounded by 13 stars and the 1838 date. The reverse (not pictured but assumed) would feature a laurel wreath around the words 'ONE CENT'.
Key Features
Early American copper, high collector demand for 'Large Cents,' clear date, no major holes or gouges, historic appeal as an 'antebellum' era coin.
Authenticity Indicators
Weight, diameter, and specific typography of the '1838' date match known genuine dies. The wear pattern is consistent with genuine copper circulation from the mid-19th century. Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Significant environmental damage/pitting on the surface; dark, uneven oxidation; smoothing of high-point details in Liberty's hair and the stars; potential 'cleaned' surface in the past which lowers numismatic premium.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best for reaching collectors), GreatCollections, or local coin shops. Avoid general marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace unless selling locally for cash to avoid high fees on low-margin items.
Selling Tips
Do NOT clean or polish the coin; any chemical cleaning will drastically reduce the value to a collector. Take high-resolution photos of BOTH sides (obverse and reverse) and the edge. Use keywords like 'Numismatic,' 'Early Copper,' 'Pre-Civil War,' and 'US Mint.' Mention the lack of 'holed' damage.