1783 Washington & Independence - Copper Restrike Grained Edge Cent

Coin Details

Description

Struck from original dies at a later date, this copper restrike of the 1783 Washington & Independence cent features a grained (reeded) edge. Cataloged as Baker 4, Musante GW-106, and Whitman 10340, the obverse presents Washington's draped bust with WASHINGTON & INDEPENDENCE, and the reverse shows a wreath encircling ONE CENT. Restrikes were produced in the early nineteenth century using preserved original dies — a common practice when collector demand drove production of new impressions from historical dies. The grained edge treatment, vertical serrations around the circumference, mimics reeded edges on higher-denomination federal coins and gives a more finished appearance than the plain edge version. While not original eighteenth-century strikes, restrikes occupy a valued place in Washington token collecting as pieces from the same dies that created originals. The copper composition matches original issues, making edge treatment and die state the primary means of distinguishing restrikes. Scarce — more available than originals but still uncommon. The grained edge restrike is one of several edge variants produced during the restrike period, alongside plain and engrailed edge versions.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Restrikes are more available than originals but still uncommon.

Cross References

Baker 4; Musante GW-106; Whitman 10340