What do I look for in a large cent as far as strike, color, etc.?

Discussion in 'Coin Chat' started by Browns Fan, Feb 24, 2022.

  1. Browns Fan

    Browns Fan Active Member

    Looking to buy a single Braided Hair large cent. It would be my first and only for now, but might try the other varieties later. I notice that the stars on some of the offerings are not sharp at all. I'm thinking that's critical to a good example. I'm wanting to spend $900 max. Thoughts?
     
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  3. Insider

    Insider Talent on loan from...

    Usual Answer when purchasing a coin: BUY THE BEST YOU CAN AFFORD. If you wish other thoughts, more info is needed.

    OP Question: "Looking to buy a single Braided Hair large cent."

    Why?
     
  4. Browns Fan

    Browns Fan Active Member

    In my collection I have one 3 cent silver, a proof 3 cent copper, a proof 2 cent piece, a $5 Liberty gold piece, a $5 Indian among other things. In each case, I have looked for the nicest coin I could afford at the time. I thought a large cent would be next, but rather than spending a lot of time researching and studying the series, I thought I would ask you folks what to avoid, look for, etc. Looks like MS63 and MS64 would be easy. I don't know anything about Newcomb designations, so looking for info there.
     
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  5. Publius2

    Publius2 Well-Known Member

    Wow! That's a fraught question. There are so many variables that might figure into a sensible answer. But here's a fundamental set of criteria for your consideration. And, I have included a photo of the example I bought for my type set. IIRC, this one cost me $350 at a local show. But here's a thought for you: Since it seems you haven't spent a lot of time researching this series, you might want to do so. The early coppers area is quite complicated and full of pitfalls. Your $900 budget won't put you in much jeopardy but I'd prefer you were satisfied with your acquisition.

    Pick a coin that suits your eye. IOW, when you look at it, are you pleased or do you have reservations? There are so many really great coins available in the Braided Hair series that you should not have to settle for seconds or thirds. But you first have to know the difference. I suggest you review sales at Heritage Auctions, Bowers & Morena, Legend Auctions to see examples of really great coins. Look at and understand the difference between a great coin and a "meh" coin. In other words, try to become a connoisseur to the extent that your time and interest allow.

    Large cents are relatively common in the braided hair varieties. You can afford to wait for a good one. With your budget you should be able to afford a nice MS-63 to MS-65 Brown coin.

    Strike is one issue. Some coins suffer from a weak strike. Discerning the difference between a weak strike and a tired die is problematic for someone who is not "into" the series. The only reason to accept a weak strike or a weak die in this series is if the die variety is rare. Since you're not buying a coin for the die variety, then you can go with the highest quality of strike and die wear available. Again, go with your gut - pick a coin that appeals to you.

    Stars are not the only criteria. Look at high-grade examples of the year and die variety you are interested in. See where the devices are fully struck up and where they are not. Compare the coin you might have an interest in against those very high-end coins.

    Do not buy a coin that is heavily "red" or "red-brown". Not only will you pay a lot more for it, but you also risk it turning more brown in the slab. Unless you are fixated on the RB or R designation, you will be safer with a brown designation.

    Do not forget about color. While tastes vary, most people seem to prefer a milk-chocolate brown color. But be aware that other colors are acceptable and some are even as or more desireable, depending on other factors. See note below on the grading guide.

    I always recommend the books that will expand understanding and appreciation. In this case, I would say you would benefit from the "Grading Guide for Early American Copper Coins". It is the quickest way to familiarize yourself with the standards and aesthetics of early copper. It may be available, maybe on Amazon or EBay.

    Good luck and have fun.





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  6. johnmilton

    johnmilton Well-Known Member

    I don't know how the pandemic has affected prices. I bought some beautiful Brown Mint State pieces, dated in the 1850s, for well below your maximum.

    This is in an old, small white, AU-58 ANACS holder. I paid well under $200 for it.

    1854 Cent All.jpg

    This 1851 is graded MS-65 Brown for less than $700.

    1851 Cent All.jpg

    But this 1852 was a lot more money. Sorry all the changes caused a small picture. Click on it so see a larger one.

    1852 Cent All.jpg

    If you have to have every radial line in the stars, that complicates things. Frankly, I am driven more by the grades and the originality.

    Added, This one is an MS-63.

    1850 Cent All.jpg

    These were bought from an EAC specialist dealer and are all high end for the grade.
     

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    Last edited: Feb 24, 2022
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  7. Insider

    Insider Talent on loan from...

    IMO, Look for on like the 1850 above. It shows no wear, original mint luster, no scratches, dark marks or hits and is a very pleasing, even brown. Buy one already graded. Perhaps john can recommend his EAC dealer.
     
  8. Browns Fan

    Browns Fan Active Member

    So, I found a coin I liked on Collector's Corner and "bought" it. I had not used this site previously, so was a little surprised as things unfolded. I got an email from the site saying the seller would contact me about payment and shipping. That didn't happen for several days, so I emailed the seller. He responded quickly, asking where I had made the purchase, as he apparently had the coin on multiple sites. After I again emailed, he advised that the coin wasn't available and that the Collector's Corner had failed to pull the coin after the previous sale. Seller offered another coin in a better grade at the same price, but I passed on that one. So, still looking.
     
  9. Maxfli

    Maxfli Well-Known Member

    Why?
     
  10. johnmilton

    johnmilton Well-Known Member

    I too have used "Collectors Corner" to find coins, but I go straight to seller as soon as I see a piece I like. First, you find out immediately if the coin is still available. Second, you might be able to negotiate a slightly lower price. “Collectors Corner” gets a cut when the item is sold through them.

    I also found this to be true with an ancient coin dealer with whom I have done a great deal of business. He has his own sight, with is a little rough around the edges, and then he's on a fancier one where he posts his offerings. The rough around the edges site is better because you get a crack at the coin right away and cut out the middle man.
     
  11. Browns Fan

    Browns Fan Active Member

    Maxfli, I didn't like the coin.
     
  12. Maxfli

    Maxfli Well-Known Member

    Got it. That's an excellent reason! :D
     
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