1853 Braided Hair Large Cent
United States Mint · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money
Era / Decade
1850s (Minted in 1853)
Material
100% Copper; solid heavy planchet (approx. 27.5mm diameter)
Condition
Good to Very Good (G-4 to VG-8). The coin shows significant surface wear, particularly on the hair detail and crown. The obverse features a noticeable scratch or 'die crack' across the lower portion near the date. It has a dark brown patina with significant pitting/environmental damage.
Demand Level
Moderate. Collectors always look for Large Cents, but 1853 is a high-mintage common date, and the condition is lower grade.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$15.00 - $35.00 (Low: $15 for damaged surface; Mid: $22 for common date; High: $35 for quick buyer looking for a hole filler).
Estimated Retail Value
$0.01 (Original Face Value) / Modern replacement value for a collector is approximately $25 - $40.
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sold listings for 1853 Large Cents in VG-8 condition range from $18 to $28. Heavily pitted or scratched 'Details' coins often sell for $12-$15.
Description
Authentic 1853 Braided Hair Liberty Head Large Cent. This pre-Civil War copper coin features Lady Liberty facing left with a pearl-accented bun and a tiara inscribed with 'LIBERTY'. The reverse (not pictured) typically features a laurel wreath. This is a classic US large cent from the mid-19th century, much larger than a modern penny.
Key Features
Pre-Civil War era history; collectible 'Braided Hair' design by Christian Gobrecht; high copper content; desirable 19th-century Americana.
Authenticity Indicators
Design elements match Gobrecht's 'Braided Hair' style; 13 stars are properly spaced; 'LIBERTY' text shows correct font for the period. Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Significant environmental pitting/corrosion on the surface; deep horizontal scratch/gouge across the '18' in the date; possible 'cleaned' appearance in the past which reduces numismatic value; rounded rims from heavy circulation.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (Numismatics section), Heritage Auctions (if part of a larger set), or a local coin shop (LCS) for immediate cash.
Selling Tips
NEVER clean this coin; scrubbing it will destroy its value. Use a macro lens for photos to show the date clearly. Use keywords: '1853 Large Cent', 'Braided Hair', 'US Copper', 'Pre-Civil War'. Shipping should be in a PVC-free flip and a padded mailer with tracking.