1838 Modified Matron Head Coronet Head Cent Base

About This Coin

The 1838 Modified Matron Head Coronet Head Cent Base is a United States cent from the Modified Matron Head Coronet Head Cents 1835-1839 series — a late issue, 4th of 5 years in the series. In 1838, coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint with a combined mintage of 6.4 million. This ranks 3rd of 5 years by total mintage, at the series median of 6.4 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. Minted during the age of Jacksonian democracy and the rise of the common man, as new branch mints opened in Charlotte, Dahlonega, and New Orleans. Struck in copper, weighing 10.89 grams, 28 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Collectors have cataloged 10 known die varieties for this date across 3 categories, including cud, interior die break, retained cud. Across its variants, estimated values range from $30 to $692 depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $30K in PR65BN grade at Heritage Auctions. Designed by Robert Scot.