(c. 1820) Token 1C GW-110, Washington Double Head Plain Edge Cent

Coin Details

Auction Record

$4,888 MS62 05-28-2008 Heritage Auctions

Description

A cent-sized token cataloged as Musante GW-110, known as the Washington Double Head cent with plain edge, produced circa 1820. This unusual token displays a portrait of George Washington on both sides, creating a piece with no traditional "reverse" design — only two obverses. The double-head format makes this one of the most visually distinctive items in the entire Washington token series. The plain edge variety represents the more commonly encountered version of this type, lacking the scalloped edge treatment found on the engrailed edge variety. The circa 1820 production date coincides with the Era of Good Feelings, a period of national unity and patriotic expression in which Washington's image served as a unifying symbol. These tokens circulated as cent-sized pieces and seen use as small change in an era when official copper cents were sometimes scarce in commercial channels. Copper, approximately 28-29mm diameter, cent-weight.

Rarity Notes

Uncommon. The plain edge is more available than the engrailed edge variety but remains a collectible Washington token.

Cross References

Musante GW-110; PCGS #692; Baker catalog (related)