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1802 No Stems

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-142

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About this coinHistory

The 1802 No Stems variety shows the reverse wreath without visible stem ends at the base. The feature is identical in concept to the stems/no-stems distinction on half cents: stems dies show short lines below the bow tying the wreath, while no-stems dies show a clean juncture. The distinction is die-specific and determined during die preparation.

Among 1802 large cent varieties, the No Stems is one of several die characteristics that Sheldon used to catalog the year's many die marriages. Given the massive 1802 mintage, multiple reverse dies were used, and the presence or absence of stems varies by die. The No Stems variety is collectible but not dramatically scarcer than stems varieties from the same date. The enormous production output means both types survive in reasonable numbers.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G)
VG-8 Very Good (VG)
F-12 Fine (F)
VF-20 Very Fine (VF)
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF)
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU)
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS)
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How many 1802 No Stems Draped Bust Large Cents were minted?
3,435,100 were struck (Combined mintage for all 1802 varieties).
What is a 1802 No Stems Draped Bust Large Cent made of?
100% Copper, weighing 10.89 g.
What is the melt value of a 1802 No Stems 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 No Stems 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.