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1809

Large Cents · Classic Head Large Cents · 1808–1814
Semi-key
Weight10.89 g
Diameter29 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 222,867
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition100% Copper
DesignerJohn Reich
Collector's Key IDCK-160

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About this coinHistory

The 1809 large cent is a scarce date in the Classic Head series. The mintage was relatively low, and the coin is harder to find than the 1808 first-year issue or the later dates in the series. Most surviving examples are in lower circulated grades, and problem-free coins above Fine are genuinely uncommon.

The design continues unchanged from 1808: Reich's Classic Head Liberty with the LIBERTY headband, the wreath reverse with denomination. Die varieties exist within the date and are cataloged by specialists, but no single variety dominates collector interest the way the overdates do for 1810 and 1811.

For a collector working through the Classic Head date set, the 1809 represents one of the more challenging acquisitions. It is not the series key date (that distinction belongs to other years), but it is scarce enough to require active searching and a willingness to pay the premium that moderate scarcity commands. A decent Fine with original surfaces is a coin worth securing when encountered.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G) $325 $375
VG-8 Very Good (VG) $650 $750
F-12 Fine (F) $940 $1,085
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $1,620 $1,870
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $4,065 $4,690
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU)
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS)
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1809 Classic Head Large Cent worth?
In Good condition it runs about $325–$375, rising to roughly $4,065–$4,690 in Extremely Fine. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1809 Classic Head Large Cents were minted?
222,867 were struck.
What is a 1809 Classic Head Large Cent made of?
100% Copper, weighing 10.89 g.
What is the melt value of a 1809 Classic Head 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 1809 Classic Head Large Cent a key date?
It's a semi-key date — scarcer than common issues but more available than the series' key dates.