1844 Proof Braided Hair Half Cent - Original
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$71,875 PR66 01-26-2014 Goldberg Auctioneers
Description
The 1844 Proof Braided Hair Half Cent - Original is a proof cent struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Braided Hair Half Cents 1840-1857 series. With a mintage of 16, this is an extremely rare issue — the lower-mintage of the two mint variants. The obverse features Liberty facing left with braided hair swept up and held by a beaded cord, wearing a headband inscribed LIBERTY 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. Estimated market value is approximately $6.8K. Struck in copper, weighing 5.44 grams, 23 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #1272.
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