1846 Braided Hair Large Cent
United States Mint (Philadelphia) · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money
Era / Decade
1840s (Minted in 1846)
Material
100% Copper; high-quality early American mintage
Condition
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). The coin shows significant surface scratches (rim and field) and a small rim nick, but the word 'LIBERTY' is clearly legible and the hair detail is decent.
Demand Level
Niche/Steady. Collectors of early American copper are a dedicated base, and mid-19th-century large cents are consistently popular.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$20.00 - $35.00 (Low-Mid) for this raw, circulated state with visible cleaning/scratches
Estimated Retail Value
$0.01 (Face value in 1846); Numismatic value today $25.00 - $45.00
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay 'Sold' listings for raw 1846 cents in similar VG/F condition range from $18.00 to $42.00 depending on the presence of environmental damage or cleaning.
Description
Authentic 1846 Braided Hair Large Cent featuring Lady Liberty on the obverse and a wreath on the reverse. This coin was minted at the Philadelphia mint and represents one of the final designs of the 'Large Cent' before the transition to smaller cents in 1857.
Key Features
Pre-Civil War era mintage; Large Cent size (bigger than a modern quarter); highly collectible 'Braided Hair' design by Christian Gobrecht; historical significance.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct font style for 1846 date; denticles are sharp; profile matches Gobrecht's design. High confidence in authenticity based on visible wear patterns and strike characteristics.
Flaws to Note
Significant vertical and diagonal scratches across the obverse field; minor rim dings at 6 o'clock; evidence of old cleaning which gives it a slightly unnatural copper shine.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best for coins), Heritage Auctions (if high grade), or local coin shops (quick cash but lower payout).
Selling Tips
Do NOT clean this coin; collectors prefer original surfaces. Use a macro lens for photos to show the 'LIBERTY' lettering clearly. List as '1846 Braided Hair Large Cent - Early US Copper'. Use a cardboard 2x2 flip for protection.