1820 Proof Matron Head Coronet Head Cent

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The 1820 Proof Matron Head Coronet Head Cent is a proof cent struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Matron Head Coronet Head Cents 1816-1835 series. NGC confirms at least one 1820 proof, from the N-10 die pair, with unconfirmed reports for N-5 and N-8. The Mint kept no count of the proofs it struck before 1858. The obverse features Liberty facing left wearing a coronet inscribed LIBERTY, with stars around the border, and the reverse displays a wreath enclosing ONE CENT. Struck during a period of national unity and westward expansion following the War of 1812, as the U.S. grew in confidence and territory. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements. Struck in copper, weighing 10.89 grams, 28 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #91768.