1798 Draped Bust Cent - First Hair Style
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$48,875 MS63 08-04-2012 Stack's Bowers
Description
The 1798 Draped Bust Cent - First Hair Style is a cent produced at the Philadelphia Mint as part of the Draped Bust Cents 1796-1807 series. The U.S. Mint produced 1.8 million examples, making this the lowest mintage among 3 mint variants, representing only 33% of total production. The obverse features Liberty facing right with draped bust and ribbon-bound hair, designed after a Gilbert Stuart portrait and the reverse displays a wreath enclosing ONE CENT and fraction 1/100. Produced during the earliest years of the United States Mint, when the young republic was establishing its monetary system and coinage traditions. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $217 to $3.1K depending on grade and condition. Struck in copper, weighing 10.89 grams, 28 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #1431.
