Price Guide for 1809 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: $6.00 – $14,400.00Uncirculated: $7,700.00 – $43,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $92.00 – $4,999.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $50.00 – $14,750.00Uncirculated: $15,500.00 – $45,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $104.00 – $20,400.00Uncirculated: $3,600.00 – $129,250.00
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eBayCirculated: $45.00 – $7,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $65.00 – $13,250.00Uncirculated: $14,500.00 – $50,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1809 Cent
The 1809 Cent, also known as the Classic Head Cent, was part of a new design introduced in 1808 by German-born engraver John Reich. This coin represents an important transition in early American coinage, moving away from the Draped Bust design to a more modern representation of Liberty. The year 1809 was only the second year of production for this design, which continued until 1814.
| Weight | 10.89 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 29 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (all minted in Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 100% copper |
| Obverse Design | Classic Head design, featuring Liberty facing left with curly hair bound by a headband inscribed 'LIBERTY', designed by John Reich |
| Reverse Design | Wreath of laurel leaves surrounding denomination 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', designed by John Reich |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1809 Cent has a significant impact on its value. Due to the age and limited mintage, high-grade examples are extremely rare and valuable. Coins in circulated conditions (Good to Very Fine) are more commonly found but still command a premium.
Uncirculated examples with original red or red-brown color are highly prized by collectors and can fetch substantial prices. The presence of corrosion, environmental damage, or cleaning can severely impact the value of these early copper coins.
Mintage: 222,867
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS60 and above
Varieties Errors: 9/6 Overdate variety, where a 9 was punched over a 6 in the date
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens and the overdate variety
Several factors can affect the value of an 1809 Cent:
1. Overdate Variety: The 9/6 overdate is highly sought after and typically commands a significant premium over the regular issue.
2. Strike Quality: Well-struck examples with full details, especially on Liberty’s hair and the wreath, are more desirable.
3. Color and Surface: Original red or red-brown coins with lustrous surfaces are rare and valuable. Even, attractive toning can also enhance value.
4. Die State: Late die state examples showing interesting die cracks or cuds may appeal to specialists.
5. Historical Significance: As an early American coin from the second year of the Classic Head design, it holds special appeal for collectors of early copper and type sets.
