The Flowing Hair Large Cent is one of the most famous coins in U.S. history, known for its rare design and historical significance. Minted in 1793, it was the first large cent coin produced by the United States Mint, making it a very important piece for coin collectors. However, because it is so old, distinguishing a genuine Flowing Hair Large Cent from a counterfeit or damaged one can be tricky. In this article, we’ll walk you through the top tips to help you identify an authentic Flowing Hair Large Cent.
1. Look for the Right Size and Weight
The Flowing Hair Large Cent was a copper coin that measured about 29 mm (1.14 inches) in diameter and weighed around 13.48 grams (0.47 ounces). These are key features that you can measure with a ruler and scale to ensure the coin is the correct size and weight. Counterfeit coins may be slightly smaller or lighter, so these measurements are a good starting point.
2. Check the Design on the Obverse
One of the main features of the Flowing Hair Large Cent is the image of Lady Liberty on the obverse (front) side. Lady Liberty is depicted with flowing hair, and her face should look realistic with sharp, clear details. The flowing hair should be well-defined, not blurry or too smooth. If the image looks unclear or overly worn, it might not be authentic.
The legend “LIBERTY” is also inscribed on this side. Make sure the letters are clear and sharp. If the letters appear faint or worn down, this could be a sign of a fake coin or a coin that has been too heavily circulated.
3. Examine the Reverse Side
The reverse of the Flowing Hair Large Cent features a simple wreath with the words “ONE CENT” in the middle. The wreath should be neatly formed, with no rough or uneven edges. Look closely at the leaves, as a real coin will have finely detailed edges, while a fake coin may have less sharpness or odd shapes.
Check the positioning of the words “ONE CENT” too. The font should look consistent, with no mismatched spacing or strange letter shapes. If something seems off in the design, it could be a fake coin.
4. Look for the Right Edge
The Flowing Hair Large Cent has a reeded edge, which means there are small, raised lines running around the edge of the coin. This feature was used to prevent people from shaving the coin down to collect the metal. If the edge is smooth or shows signs of tampering, it could be a sign that the coin is not genuine.
5. Examine the Condition of the Coin
The condition of the coin can give you valuable clues. A Flowing Hair Large Cent that is in good condition will have crisp details, while a coin that has been damaged or worn down may lack the sharp features that are characteristic of an authentic coin. Keep in mind that some wear and tear is natural, especially considering the coin’s age, but extreme wear may indicate that the coin is not in its original state.
Coins that are too shiny or show signs of polishing may be fake, as collectors usually avoid coins that have been overly cleaned or altered.
6. Check the Mintmark (If Present)
Although not all Flowing Hair Large Cents have a mintmark, some may have one that indicates where the coin was made. The mintmark, if present, will be located on the reverse side near the bottom of the coin. Authentic Flowing Hair Large Cents minted in 1793 do not typically carry a mintmark, as the U.S. Mint did not begin marking coins until later. If a mintmark is present, it might not be genuine.
Table: Key Features of the Flowing Hair Large Cent
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 29 mm (1.14 inches) |
| Weight | 13.48 grams (0.47 ounces) |
| Obverse Design | Lady Liberty with flowing hair |
| Reverse Design | Wreath with “ONE CENT” inscription |
| Edge | Reeded (small raised lines around the edge) |
| Mintmark | No mintmark in most cases |
| Condition | Sharp details, minimal wear |
7. Look for the Right Color
The Flowing Hair Large Cent is made of copper, so it should have a reddish-brown color. Over time, the coin may show signs of tarnishing, which is normal. However, if the coin is too shiny or has a different color, it may have been altered or cleaned, which could be a red flag for fakes.
8. Use Professional Help for Authentication
If you’re unsure about the authenticity of your coin, it’s always a good idea to take it to a professional coin dealer or get it authenticated by a grading service. These professionals can examine the coin in detail and provide an expert opinion on whether it is genuine or fake. Grading services can also assign a grade to the coin, which will help you understand its value based on its condition.
Conclusion
Identifying a genuine Flowing Hair Large Cent can be challenging, especially for new collectors. However, by paying attention to the key features such as size, weight, design, and condition, you can better determine whether the coin is authentic. Remember, this coin is not just valuable for its metal, but also for its historical importance. If you ever come across one of these rare coins, it could be worth thousands of dollars, so it’s important to know how to spot the real deal.
If you ever have doubts, don’t hesitate to consult with professionals in the field of numismatics who can give you a more accurate assessment.
FAQ’s
1. What should I look for to identify a real Flowing Hair Large Cent?
Look for the correct size, weight, clear design of Lady Liberty with flowing hair, and a wreath with “ONE CENT” on the reverse. The edge should also be reeded.
2. How can I check if the Flowing Hair Large Cent is a fake?
Examine the coin for signs of wear, unusual shine, missing details, or improper mintmark placement. Also, check the weight and size.
3. What is the value of a Flowing Hair Large Cent?
The value can vary, but a well-preserved Flowing Hair Large Cent can be worth thousands of dollars. Its value is determined by factors like condition, rarity, and demand.
4. How do I know if my Flowing Hair Large Cent is in good condition?
A good condition coin will have clear, sharp details. The face of Lady Liberty should be well-defined, and the wreath should be neatly outlined without significant wear.