1853 Braided Hair Liberty Head Large Cent
United States Mint · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money
Era / Decade
1850s (Authenticated by 1853 date stamp)
Material
95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc; weight should be approx 10.89 grams
Condition
Good to Very Good (G-4 to VG-8). Clear date and LIBERTY visible in headband; moderate wear on hair details and stars; chocolate brown patina with some surface pitting and minor edge nicks. No major corrosion.
Demand Level
Moderate. Steady demand from type-set collectors and history buffs, though 1853 is a common date for this series.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$12.00 - $35.00 (Higher end if identified as a rare variety like the 'Over 1852' or 'Small Date')
Estimated Retail Value
$15.00 - $25.00 (Current numismatic market pricing for this grade)
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sold listings for 1853 Large Cents in 'Good' condition range from $14.50 to $22.00. Specimens with 'Very Good' details often hit $30-$35.
Description
Authentic 1853 Braided Hair Large Cent, United States Mint. Features the Liberty Head design by Christian Gobrecht. Reverse (assumed) features 'ONE CENT' inside a laurel wreath. This coin is larger than a modern quarter, representing the heavy copper currency of pre-Civil War America. Dark chocolate brown toning.
Key Features
Historical 19th-century Americana; high copper content; clear 'LIBERTY' inscription which is usually the first detail to wear off; popular 'Braided Hair' design series (1839-1857).
Authenticity Indicators
Distinctive 1850s mint font for the date; correct profile proportions. Red Flag: Replicas often have 'soft' or mushy details in the stars. Confidence: High (item appears to be an authentic circulated specimen).
Flaws to Note
Visible surface scratches and micro-pitting; minor rim dings; significant flattening of the hair curls above the ear and the stars on the left side.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best for reaching coin collectors), GreatCollections, or local coin shops. Avoid Facebook Marketplace due to potential for scams/low-balling.
Selling Tips
DO NOT CLEAN. Collectors prefer original patina; cleaning significantly destroys value. Use a macro lens for photos of the date and headband. In the listing, mention if the coin has a 'Medal' or 'Coin' alignment. Ship in a PVC-free flip and padded mailer.