1816 Matron Head Coronet Head Cent Base

About This Coin

The 1816 Matron Head Coronet Head Cent Base is a United States cent from the Matron Head Coronet Head Cents 1816-1835 series — the first year of the series. In 1816, coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint with a combined mintage of 2.8 million. This ranks 5th of 20 years by total mintage, below the series median of 4.5 million. The obverse features Liberty facing left wearing a hair ribbon inscribed LIBERTY, with a coronet of stars around her head and the reverse displays a wreath enclosing ONE CENT. First year of the Matron Head (Coronet) Cent. Numerous Newcomb die varieties cataloged. Struck in copper, weighing 10.89 grams, 28 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Collectors have identified one known die variety for this date (cud). Produced 5 years before the celebrated 1821 key date. Across its variants, estimated values range from $43 to $1.3K depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $25K in MS60 grade at Superior Galleries. Designed by Robert Scot.