Price Guide for 1808 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.

1808 Penny, BN (Regular Strike)
  • 3rd Party Price
    Circulated: $10.50 – $16,100.00
    Uncirculated: $2,760.00 – $38,400.00
  • eBay
    Circulated: $28.00 – $2,900.00
    Uncirculated: $25.00
  • PCGS Price Guide
    Circulated: $70.00 – $7,750.00
    Uncirculated: $9,000.00 – $100,000.00
1808 Penny S-278, BN (Regular Strike)
  • 3rd Party Price
    Circulated: $70.00 – $16,100.00
    Uncirculated: $10,800.00 – $38,400.00
  • eBay
    Circulated: $96.01 – $331.99
  • PCGS Price Guide
    Circulated: $150.00 – $8,750.00
    Uncirculated: $10,000.00 – $16,000.00
1808 Penny Sheldon-277, BN (Regular Strike)
  • 3rd Party Price
    Circulated: $104.00 – $10,200.00
    Uncirculated: $8,400.00 – $32,900.00
  • eBay
    Circulated: $502.90
  • PCGS Price Guide
    Circulated: $125.00 – $7,600.00
    Uncirculated: $9,000.00 – $47,500.00
1808 Penny S-278, RB (Regular Strike)
  • 3rd Party Price
    Uncirculated: $47,000.00
  • eBay
    Circulated: $599.99
1808 Penny Sheldon-279, BN (Regular Strike)
  • 3rd Party Price
    Circulated: $50.00 – $9,488.00
    Uncirculated: $2,200.00 – $76,375.00
  • eBay
    Circulated: $340.00 – $379.00
  • PCGS Price Guide
    Circulated: $150.00 – $8,500.00
    Uncirculated: $17,500.00 – $95,000.00

Design and Specifications of the 1808 Cent

The 1808 Cent marks the first year of the Classic Head design, which replaced the Draped Bust design. This new design was created by John Reich, a German immigrant who became assistant engraver at the U.S. Mint. The Classic Head cent was produced for only six years, from 1808 to 1814, making it a relatively short-lived series in American coinage history.

Weight 10.89 grams
Diameter 29 mm
Mint Marks None (all minted in Philadelphia)
Composition 100% Copper
Obverse Design Classic Head design, depicting Liberty facing left with a headband inscribed 'LIBERTY', designed by John Reich
Reverse Design Wreath surrounding 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', designed by John Reich

Rarity Factors and Value Drivers

Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1808 Cents. Due to the coin’s age and the quality of minting technology at the time, high-grade specimens are extremely rare. Coins in VF (Very Fine) condition or better are highly sought after by collectors.

The quality of the strike can vary significantly, with many examples showing weakness in certain areas, particularly on the reverse wreath. Coins with strong, well-defined details command a premium. Original red color is extremely rare and highly prized, while attractive, even brown patina is desirable.

Philadelphia, No Mint Mark

Mintage: 1,007,000

Rarity Scale: Scarce

Circulation Status: Limited Circulation

Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS60 and above

Varieties Errors: 12 Stars (rare) and 13 Stars (standard) varieties

Market Demand: High, due to its status as a first-year issue and overall scarcity

First-year status significantly enhances the value and desirability of the 1808 Cent. The 12 Stars variety, which is much rarer than the standard 13 Stars, can command a substantial premium.

Die state is another important factor, with early die state examples typically more valuable due to their sharper details. Provenance can also play a role, with coins from famous collections or with a documented history of ownership potentially commanding higher prices.

As with many early copper coins, the absence of corrosion or environmental damage is crucial. Smooth, problem-free surfaces are highly desirable and can significantly impact value.

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