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1802

Large Cents · Draped Bust Large Cents · 1796–1807
Regular
Weight10.89 g
Diameter29 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 3,435,100 Combined mintage for all 1802 varieties
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition100% Copper
DesignerRobert Scot
Collector's Key IDCK-140

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About this coinHistory

The 1802 large cent has the highest mintage of any Draped Bust date: 3,435,100 coins, a figure that towers over every other year in the series. The Mint had secured ample copper and ran the presses steadily throughout the year. The result is the most common Draped Bust large cent and one of the most affordable dates in the early copper series.

The massive mintage means that surviving examples are relatively plentiful across a wide grade range. Good to Fine is easily achievable, and even Very Fine and Extremely Fine examples appear at auction regularly. The 1802 is the date that type collectors use to represent the Draped Bust large cent, because it offers the design at its most accessible price point.

Multiple die varieties exist within the date, as the high mintage required numerous die pairs. Sheldon cataloged many die marriages, and variety collectors can build a substantial sub-collection within the 1802 date alone. For most collectors, however, a single problem-free example in decent condition satisfies the date.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G) $67 $77
VG-8 Very Good (VG) $106 $122
F-12 Fine (F) $215 $250
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $450 $520
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $1,040 $1,200
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU)
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS)
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1802 Draped Bust Large Cent worth?
In Good condition it runs about $67–$77, rising to roughly $1,040–$1,200 in Extremely Fine. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1802 Draped Bust Large Cents were minted?
3,435,100 were struck (Combined mintage for all 1802 varieties).
What is a 1802 Draped Bust Large Cent made of?
100% Copper, weighing 10.89 g.
What is the melt value of a 1802 Draped Bust 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 1802 Draped Bust Large Cent a key date?
It's a more common date overall, though scarcer die varieties may carry a premium — see the varieties list.