– Draped Bust Cent (1796-1807)

The Draped Bust Cent is a historic coin issued by the United States Mint from 1796 to 1807. It represents a significant era in American numismatic history and is prized by collectors for its classic design and historical significance. Here's an overview of the Draped Bust Cent: 

Design: The obverse (front) of the coin features a portrait of Lady Liberty with her hair adorned with a ribbon, facing to the right. The word "Liberty" is inscribed above her head, and the date of mintage appears below.  

Designer: The design of the Draped Bust Cent is attributed to Robert Scot, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint at the time. Scot's rendition of Lady Liberty on the coin reflects the neoclassical style prevalent in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, with its emphasis on classical motifs and elegant proportions. 

Metal Composition: The Draped Bust Cent was struck in copper, with a weight of approximately 10.89 grams and a diameter of about 29 millimeters. Copper was the primary metal used for U.S. coinage during this time period due to its availability and suitability for coin production. 

Mintage: The mintage numbers for the Draped Bust Cent varied from year to year, with production levels influenced by factors such as demand for small denomination coins, technological limitations, and availability of copper for coinage. Mintages were generally modest compared to later large cent issues. 

Historical Context: The issuance of the Draped Bust Cent was part of the United States' efforts to establish a stable and recognizable currency system following the American Revolution. 

Collector's Value: Due to their age, historical significance, and limited mintage numbers, Draped Bust Cents are highly sought after by coin collectors and numismatists. 

Legacy: The Draped Bust Cent holds a special place in American numismatic history as one of the earliest official one-cent coins minted by the United States government. 

It reflects the ideals and aspirations of the young nation, as well as the artistic and technological achievements of its time. Today, these coins serve as tangible artifacts that offer insights into the economic, cultural, and political landscape of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. 

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