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.

1853

Large Cents · Braided Hair Large Cents · 1839–1857
Regular
Weight10.89 g
Diameter27.5 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 6,641,131 Combined mintage for all 1853 varieties
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition100% Copper
DesignerChristian Gobrecht
Collector's Key IDCK-284

Collection

collectors own this
on want lists

Your collection

Sign in to track this coin.

About this coinHistory

The 1853 large cent was produced during the year Congress reduced the silver content of several denominations to prevent melting. The copper large cent was unaffected by the silver weight reduction, but the broader monetary reform environment surrounded its production. The coin is available in circulated grades at standard pricing.

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) $33 $38
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $48 $55
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $121 $140
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU) $162 $187
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS) $183 $210
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS) $370 $395
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1853 Braided Hair Large Cent worth?
In Good condition it runs about $19.50–$23, rising to roughly $183–$210 in Uncirculated. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1853 Braided Hair Large Cents were minted?
6,641,131 were struck (Combined mintage for all 1853 varieties).
What is a 1853 Braided Hair Large Cent made of?
100% Copper, weighing 10.89 g.
What is the melt value of a 1853 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 1853 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.