The value of an 1840 one-cent coin, known as the Braided Hair Large Cent, varies significantly based on its condition and specific variety (large date, small date, or small date over large 18 overdate).
In general, these coins can be found in a range of conditions, from circulated to Mint State (uncirculated).
Common examples in circulated condition can be found in the range of:
- Good (G): Around $20 – $25. An example of a Good-4 (G4) large date Braided Hair Large Cent sold for $22.00 in a PCGS auction.
- Very Fine (VF): Around $55 – $227.50.
- Extremely Fine (XF): $75 – $240. An XF40 large date Braided Hair Large Cent was recently sold for $115.00.
- Almost Uncirculated (AU): Around $386.80 to $395.00.
Uncirculated examples (Mint State – MS) command higher values and can vary significantly depending on the specific variety:
- Large Date varieties: $16 to $20,000, depending on the specific die marriage and presence of original mint red (RD) or brown (BN) coloring.
- Small Date varieties: $16 to $10,000, also influenced by the die marriage and coloration.
- Small Date over Large 18 overdate varieties: $47 to $26,000. These are considered scarcer and can be quite valuable, particularly in higher grades.
Key Factors Affecting Value:
- Condition/Grade: Coins in better condition (higher grades) are more valuable. Professional grading services like PCGS and NGC provide standardized evaluations of a coin’s condition.
- Variety: The 1840 large cent comes in several varieties, primarily categorized by the size of the date and the presence of an overdate (Small Date over Large 18). Rarer varieties will fetch higher prices.
- Red (RD) or Brown (BN) coloring: Uncirculated copper coins are designated as either Red, Red Brown, or Brown, based on the amount of original mint color remaining. Red coins are the most desirable and typically the most valuable.
Recent sales:
- An 1840 Large Date N-10 Braided Hair Large Cent in Extremely Fine condition (XF) was sold for $119.95.
- An 1840 Braided Hair Large Cent, N-4, in Very Fine condition was sold for $65.00.
- A chocolate brown 1840 Large Cent in Very Good (Small Date) condition recently sold for $29.00.
- A PCGS-graded MS63 Braided Hair Large Cent (Large Date) was auctioned for $1,265.00.
Important Note: These values are approximate and can fluctuate based on market demand and the specific characteristics of the individual coin. For an accurate valuation, it is recommended to consult a professional numismatist or utilize reputable grading services.
What is a large cent small date in 1840?
The 1840 Small Date Braided Hair Large Cent is notable for its design, which was created by Christian Gobrecht, the chief engraver at the Mint. This particular coin stands out due to the distinct “small date” variety, which features smaller numerals for the year 1840 compared to other coins of the same year.
How much is an 1840 coin worth?
1840 Seated Liberty Dollar Value
According to the NGC Price Guide, as of August 2025, a Seated Liberty Dollar from 1840 in circulated condition is worth between $300 and $4750. However, on the open market 1840 Silver Dollars in pristine, uncirculated condition sell for as much as $45000.
Which American 1 cent coins are valuable?
From my experience, 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Wheat Penny — $2.3 million. …
1944-S Steel Wheat Penny — $1.1 million. …
1793 Strawberry Leaf Cent — $862,500. …
1943-S Lincoln Cent Struck on Bronze — $282,000. …
1909 VDB Matte Proof Lincoln Penny — $258,000. …
1958 Doubled Die Obverse Cent — $224,831. …
1856 Flying Eagle Cent — $172,500.