Price Guide for 1826 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: $2.40 – $6,900.00Uncirculated: $206.00 – $13,513.00
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eBayCirculated: $7.62 – $1,799.99Uncirculated: $1,000.00 – $2,650.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $1,625.00Uncirculated: $1,650.00 – $18,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $19.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $40.00 – $4,700.00Uncirculated: $763.75 – $39,100.00
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eBayCirculated: $90.00 – $585.00Uncirculated: $6,156.00 – $7,877.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $50.00 – $5,850.00Uncirculated: $8,000.00 – $60,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,783.00 – $5,290.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4,250.00 – $10,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $85.00 – $2,115.00Uncirculated: $763.75 – $5,400.00
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eBayCirculated: $70.51
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $40.00 – $1,525.00Uncirculated: $1,600.00 – $5,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $440.63 – $1,680.00Uncirculated: $1,410.00 – $2,990.00
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eBayCirculated: $725.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $650.00 – $1,150.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $45.00 – $1,680.00Uncirculated: $863.00 – $3,290.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $40.00 – $1,725.00Uncirculated: $1,800.00 – $2,400.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6,600.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $6,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $65.00 – $1,057.50Uncirculated: $1,680.00 – $3,120.00
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eBayCirculated: $120.87 – $446.25
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $40.00 – $1,525.00Uncirculated: $1,600.00 – $4,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3,819.00 – $5,875.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $6,000.00 – $10,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $99.88 – $1,939.00Uncirculated: $2,530.00 – $22,325.00
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eBayCirculated: $123.51
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $40.00 – $1,525.00Uncirculated: $1,600.00 – $20,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $132.00 – $2,585.00Uncirculated: $1,440.00 – $7,637.50
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eBayCirculated: $160.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $40.00 – $1,525.00Uncirculated: $1,600.00 – $20,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $144.00 – $1,410.00Uncirculated: $1,801.20 – $10,200.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $800.00 – $1,250.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $144.00 – $4,113.00Uncirculated: $8,400.00 – $70,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $50.00 – $5,500.00Uncirculated: $11,500.00 – $55,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1826 Cent
The 1826 Cent, also known as the Coronet Head or Matron Head Cent, was part of the early copper coinage of the United States. This coin represents a transitional period in American numismatics, as the country was still establishing its monetary system and refining its coin production techniques.
The year 1826 was significant as it marked the 50th anniversary of American independence. The cent, being the workhorse of everyday commerce, played a crucial role in the expanding American economy of the early 19th century.
| Weight | 10.89 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 28-29 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (All cents were minted in Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 100% Copper |
| Obverse Design | Coronet Head (Matron Head) design, designed by Robert Scot |
| Reverse Design | Wreath of laurel leaves enclosing denomination, designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1826 Cents. Due to the coin’s age and the limitations of early 19th-century minting technology, high-grade specimens are extremely rare. Coins in Uncirculated condition (MS60 or better) are highly prized by collectors and can command significant premiums.
The quality of the strike, presence of original red color, and absence of environmental damage (such as corrosion or porosity) greatly influence the coin’s desirability and value. Coins with sharp details, good luster, and attractive color are particularly sought after.
Mintage: 1,517,425
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: N6 (Normal date) and N7 (Repunched date) varieties
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Several factors can add to the value of an 1826 Cent:
1. Die varieties: The N6 and N7 varieties are of interest to specialists, with the N7 (repunched date) generally commanding a premium.
2. Original red color: Cents that retain significant amounts of original mint red color are extremely rare and valuable.
3. Provenance: Coins with a notable ownership history or pedigree can be more valuable.
4. Toning: Attractive, natural toning can enhance a coin’s appeal and value.
5. Early strikes: Coins struck early in the die’s life, showing sharp details and minimal die wear, are more desirable.
