1838 Proof Modified Matron Head Coronet Head Cent

Coin Details

Auction Record

$30,000 PR65BN 01-15-2023 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1838 Proof Modified Matron Head Coronet Head Cent is a proof cent struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Modified Matron Head Coronet Head Cents 1835-1839 series. With a mintage of 12, this is an extremely rare issue — the scarcer of two mint variants, with less than 1% of total production. 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. 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 prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Auction record: $30,000 PR65BN 01-15-2023 Heritage Auctions. Struck in copper, weighing 10.89 grams, 28 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #1811.