Value of a Cent

The American Large Cent Coin Value

The American large cent is worth at least $15 to $20 today. That is the minimum value of a coin in what dealers call "good" condition.

Your are very fortunate to own one, as those who assemble collections of the American large cent are very passionate about them and actively seek additions to their collections.
Should your coin be a rare date or even a well preserved large cent the value increases significantly.
The coin pictured is an example of a high condition coin any collector would desire. Quickly paying $120 or more. Spirited bidding often erupts at auctions over the rare large cents.
Discovering rare dates, high condition, or rare varieties all contributes to how much your coins are worth.

The American Large Cent "Grade" Determines Value

In order to determine the value of your coin it is necessary to "grade" its condition.
The concept is straight forward... as a coin circulates and wears, all the varying degrees of its condition are each assigned a grade.
Compare your coin to the grading images and find the closest match. The Braided Hair type large cent is pictured. Examine closely the hair around her face and the amount of detail showing in the leaves of the wreath on the reverse. The more detail evident the better the condition and grade. If your coin is slightly better than pictured, use the higher value of the price range.
Amazingly, some examples of the American large cent survive today in uncirculated or mint state grade, meaning no signs of wear. Skill is required to accurately grade a mint state large cent. Beware... small differences in grade often have large differences in value.

Grading a coin is not an exact science. It is your opinion, dealers and collectors have their own opinions... and they can all differ slightly. There is hope...
Collectors and dealers consider PCGS and NGC as leaders in coin grading services. They both authenticate, grade your coin, and identify any special varieties. Especially important with the earlier years. The small fee you pay provides assurance you understand and receive the full value of your coin.
Investigate dealer's listings, look for those offering the American large cent for sale, their listings and prices usually include a notation of the NGC or PCGS assigned grade. Additionally... these coin dealers are potential buyers of your coins.

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