Price Guide for 1805 Cent Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2.50 – $17,825.00Uncirculated: $1,610.00 – $184,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $17.00 – $2,800.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $90.00 – $6,250.00Uncirculated: $7,000.00 – $175,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $52.00 – $16,675.00
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eBayCirculated: $140.37 – $1,075.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $138.00Uncirculated: $3,163.00 – $23,100.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $17,000.00 – $62,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $76.00 – $16,100.00Uncirculated: $3,240.00 – $51,700.00
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eBayCirculated: $62.50 – $507.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $125.00 – $6,250.00Uncirculated: $7,000.00 – $57,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $58,750.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $94.00 – $4,600.00Uncirculated: $1,540.00 – $152,750.00
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eBayCirculated: $40.00 – $705.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $125.00 – $5,750.00Uncirculated: $8,500.00 – $165,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1805 Cent
The 1805 Cent, also known as the Draped Bust Large Cent, is part of the early copper coinage of the United States. This coin represents a crucial period in American numismatic history, as it was minted during the formative years of the U.S. Mint. The Draped Bust design, introduced in 1796, continued through 1807 for cents, showcasing the evolving artistry and minting capabilities of the young nation.
| Weight | 10.89 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 29 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (All 1805 cents were minted in Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 100% Copper |
| Obverse Design | Draped Bust portrait of Liberty facing right, designed by Robert Scot |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding 'ONE CENT' and fraction '1/100', designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1805 Cents. Due to their age and the copper composition, many surviving specimens show significant wear, corrosion, or environmental damage. Coins in Very Fine (VF) condition or better are highly sought after, with those in Extremely Fine (XF) or better being quite rare.
The quality of the strike is also important, as many 1805 Cents suffer from weak strikes, particularly in the central areas. Well-struck examples command a premium. Additionally, the presence of original mint red color, even if only traces, can significantly increase the value.
Mintage: 941,116
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS60 and above
Varieties Errors: S-267 (Blunt 1), S-269 (Stemless Wreath)
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Variety collectors highly prize the different die varieties of 1805 Cents. The S-267 (Blunt 1) and S-269 (Stemless Wreath) varieties are particularly notable and can command higher prices. The overall eye appeal of the coin is crucial, with smooth, problem-free surfaces being highly desirable.
Provenance can also play a role in value, especially for high-grade examples. Coins with a documented history of belonging to famous collections or appearing in important auctions may fetch a premium. Lastly, the presence of attractive, natural toning can enhance the value, particularly for higher-grade specimens.
