Coin Highlights Issuer: United States of America Date: 1801 Mint: Philadelphia (no mintmark) Denomination: One Cent (1¢) Variety: Sheldon-216 (Reverse die variety) Composition: Pure copper (~100%) Weight: ~10.89 g (planchets often vary) Diameter: 27–29 mm Grade: NGC XF Details – Scratches noted Obverse Design: Liberty facing right with flowing hair tied with a ribbon; inscription LIBERTY above and date below. Reverse Design: Wreath encircling ONE CENT with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA surrounding; denomination 1/100 below. Edge: Lettered ONE HUNDRED FOR A DOLLAR Historical Significance The Draped Bust Large Cent series (1796–1807) was designed by Robert Scot, Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. These cents reflect the early struggles of the Philadelphia Mint, where hand-engraved dies and variable copper planchets produced wide variations and die marriages, later catalogued by Dr. William Sheldon. The 1801 issue, with a total mintage of 1,362,837 coins, is part of the formative years of American coinage, issued when Thomas Jefferson served as Vice President under John Adams. About the S-216 Variety The Sheldon-216 is a recognized die marriage for the 1801 cent, identified by distinctive die markers in both obverse and reverse design elements. Collectors of Early American Coppers (EAC) pursue these varieties extensively, and the attribution adds further historical and collectible significance. Collectibility At the XF detail level, this coin retains strong definition in Liberty’s portrait and the wreath, despite noted surface scratches. The scratches designation is typical for early large cents, as these coins circulated heavily and were often mishandled in their long lives. Its rarity as a certified, attributed S-216 variety ensures lasting collector demand, even with condition issues. A solid opportunity for variety specialists and type collectors seeking an affordable yet detailed example of an 1801 Draped Bust cent.
