1802 Draped Bust Cent

About This Coin

The 1802 Draped Bust Cent is a United States cent from the Draped Bust Cents 1796-1807 series — 7th of 12 years in the series. In 1802, coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint with a combined mintage of 11.1 million. This represents the second-highest annual mintage in the series, above the series median of 3.9 million. 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 in copper, weighing 10.89 grams, with a plain edge. Collectors have cataloged 10 known die varieties for this date. Produced 3 years after the celebrated 1799 key date. Across its variants, estimated values range from $123 to $1.7K depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $43K in MS64 grade at Heritage Auctions. Designed by Robert Scot.