1839 booby head large cent.

Was a bit surprised seller accepted a $30 offer for this one. Looks to have vf sharpness to me.

 

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Why is it called a “booby head”?

 

not sure. There is a silly head as well that year.

 

The term booby head only applies to 1839 braided hair, large cents. The name booby head comes from the appearance of the braided hair. liberty’s hair curls down around her shoulder proceeding to curl up from underneath of it. The result is a liberty with an enlarged and awkward neck.
There is also an 1839 silly head large cent. That is just another variety of the way. Liberty’s hair is curled.