1852 Braided Hair Large Cent Value Guide

The 1852 Braided Hair Large Cent represents the final era of heavy copper coinage in the United States before the transition to smaller cents in 1857. Designed by Christian Gobrecht, this specific year saw a high production of over 5 million units, making it a cornerstone piece for collectors of mid-19th-century American currency.

What Is 1852 Braided Hair Large Cent Worth?

The typical price range for 1852 Braided Hair Large Cent is $25 - $28 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Surface preservation, as copper is highly susceptible to corrosion, pitting, and environmental damage.
• The presence of original 'red' luster versus a circulated brown patina significantly impacts the $25-$28 price range.
• Sharpness of the hair strands and the 'LIBERTY' inscription on the coronet, which are the first details to wear down.
• The absence of scratches, rim dings, or cleaning marks which are common on these heavy utility coins.

How to Identify 1852 Braided Hair Large Cent?

• Verify the 27.5mm diameter and 100% copper composition characteristic of the Braided Hair series.
• Look for Christian Gobrecht's design featuring Liberty with hair tied back in a bun and secured by a cord.
• Examine the reverse for the 'ONE CENT' denomination enclosed within a continuous laurel wreath.
• Check the date '1852' centered below the bust of Liberty on the obverse side.

History of 1852 Braided Hair Large Cent

The Braided Hair Large Cent was the final design of the US copper penny before the Mint transitioned to smaller, copper-nickel cents in 1857. Designed by Christian Gobrecht, this series was minted from 1839 to 1857. In 1852, over 5 million of these coins were produced, representing a period when the United States was expanding rapidly and these large, heavy copper coins were the primary medium for small daily transactions.