Have a photo? Submit it and we'll credit you.

As an eBay Affiliate, Collector's Key may be compensated if you make a purchase through the link(s) above.

1843 Petite-Small Letters Proof

Large Cents · Braided Hair Large Cents · 1839–1857
Key date Proof
Weight10.89 g
Diameter27.5 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeProof
Mintage 2,425,342 Combined mintage for all 1843 varieties
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition100% Copper
DesignerChristian Gobrecht
Collector's Key IDCK-258

Collection

collectors own this
on want lists

Your collection

Sign in to track this coin.

About this coinHistory

The 1843 Petite Head, Small Letters proof was struck from the smaller-portrait die using proof technique. The delicate features of the Petite Head are shown to their best advantage in proof format, where the full die detail is preserved. Surviving proofs are rare.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
PR-63 Proof (PR)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How many 1843 Petite-Small Letters Proof Braided Hair Large Cents were minted?
2,425,342 were struck (Combined mintage for all 1843 varieties).
What is a 1843 Petite-Small Letters Proof Braided Hair Large Cent made of?
100% Copper, weighing 10.89 g.
What is the melt value of a 1843 Petite-Small Letters Proof Braided Hair Large Cent?
Its melt value is its metal content multiplied by the current spot price. See our melt calculator on the metals pages for a live figure.
Is the 1843 Petite-Small Letters Proof Braided Hair Large Cent a key date?
Yes — the 1843 Petite-Small Letters Proof Braided Hair Large Cent is considered a key date in the Braided Hair Large Cents series and commands a strong premium.