1851 Braided Hair Large Cent
United States Mint · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money
Era / Decade
1850s (specifically 1851)
Material
Nearly 100% Copper; large cent planchet weighs approx. 10.89 grams.
Condition
Good to Very Good (G-VG details). The coin shows significant surface wear, particularly on the hair details and stars, with notable pitting/corrosion near the left field and heavy toning/environmental damage.
Demand Level
Strong (Steady demand among numismatists and type set collectors).
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$15.00 - $25.00 (as a 'details' or problem coin due to surface pitting/corrosion)
Estimated Retail Value
$25.00 - $45.00 (based on numismatic retail price lists for lower grades)
Comparable Sales
Low-grade/pitted 1851 Large Cents typically sell for $12-$18 on eBay auctions; examples with better surfaces and G-VG details sell for $25-$35.
Description
Authentic 1851 United States Braided Hair Large Cent copper coin. Features Lady Liberty facing left with a braided hair bun and tiara bearing 'LIBERTY'. Surrounded by 13 stars with the date 1851 below. This coin is significantly larger than a modern quarter.
Key Features
Pre-Civil War era US currency; obsolete large-format copper; high historical collector interest; recognizable 'Braided Hair' design by Christian Gobrecht.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct font style for 1851 date; denticles around the rim are consistent with US Mint strike; profile of Liberty matches Gobrecht design. Confidence: High (though weight and diameter should be verified).
Flaws to Note
Significant environmental damage/pitting on the left side near the first few stars; heavy dark toning; flat spots on high points of hair; minor rim dings.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best for reaching coin collectors), GreatCollections, or local coin shops. Avoid general marketplaces like Poshmark.
Selling Tips
Do NOT clean this coin, as cleaning destroys numismatic value. Take high-resolution macro photos of both the obverse and reverse. Use keywords like 'Pre-Civil War', 'Large Cent', and 'Braided Hair'. Mention the pitting honestly to avoid returns.