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1844

Large Cents · Braided Hair Large Cents · 1839–1857
Regular
Weight10.89 g
Diameter27.5 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 2,398,752 Combined mintage for all 1844 varieties
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition100% Copper
DesignerChristian Gobrecht
Collector's Key IDCK-259

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About this coinHistory

The 1844 large cent was produced in solid quantity, and the standard-date coin is available in circulated grades. The Mature Head portrait established in 1843 continued as the standard. The 1844 is a mid-series date without unusual complications, though the 1844/81 overdate variety adds collector interest to the year.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G) $19.50 $23
VG-8 Very Good (VG) $30 $35
F-12 Fine (F) $36 $42
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $65 $75
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $121 $140
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU) $205 $235
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS) $470 $540
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS) $1,295 $1,370
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1844 Braided Hair Large Cent worth?
In Good condition it runs about $19.50–$23, rising to roughly $470–$540 in Uncirculated. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1844 Braided Hair Large Cents were minted?
2,398,752 were struck (Combined mintage for all 1844 varieties).
What is a 1844 Braided Hair Large Cent made of?
100% Copper, weighing 10.89 g.
What is the melt value of a 1844 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 1844 Braided Hair Large Cent a key date?
It's a more common date overall, though scarcer die varieties may carry a premium — see the varieties list.