1796 Draped Bust Large Cent Value Guide

The 1796 Draped Bust Large Cent is a cornerstone of early American numismatics, marking the debut year of Robert Scot's refined Liberty design. These copper coins are highly collectible as they represent the experimental era of the nascent United States Mint and its evolving artistry.

What Is 1796 Draped Bust Large Cent Worth?

The typical price range for 1796 Draped Bust Large Cent is $150 - $250 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The degree of surface corrosion and environmental damage, which is common on early copper.
• The visibility of the 1796 date and the 'Liberty' inscription despite heavy circulation.
• The presence of any specific die varieties or errors unique to the first year of production.
• Overall eye appeal, even in lower grades, ranging from $150 to $250 for circulated examples.

How to Identify 1796 Draped Bust Large Cent?

• Verify the 1796 date located at the bottom of the obverse below the Draped Bust of Liberty.
• Check for the 'ONE CENT' denomination centered within a wreath on the reverse side.
• Look for the specific draped bust profile, which replaced the earlier Liberty Cap design in 1796.
• Examine the edge for a plain finish, as was standard for these early copper issues.

History of 1796 Draped Bust Large Cent

The Draped Bust Large Cent was minted by the United States Mint from 1796 to 1807. These early large cents are significant as they represent some of the first coinage produced by the nascent United States, reflecting the challenges and evolving artistry of early American numismatics. The design features a draped bust of Liberty on the obverse and a wreath on the reverse, with the denomination 'ONE CENT'. The 1796 issue is particularly notable as it was the first year of this design.