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1807 Comet

Large Cents · Draped Bust Large Cents · 1796–1807
Variety
Weight10.89 g
Diameter29 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 829,221 Combined mintage for all 1807 varieties
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition100% Copper
DesignerRobert Scot
Collector's Key IDCK-156

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About this coinHistory

The 1807 "Comet" variety takes its name from a distinctive die flaw behind Liberty's head on the obverse. A series of raised lines or streaks radiates outward from behind the portrait, resembling the tail of a comet. The feature was caused by damage to the obverse die, either from cracking, foreign material embedded in the die face, or a flaw in the steel that produced linear raised marks on the struck coins.

The Comet variety is one of the most visually distinctive die flaws in the Draped Bust series. The radiating lines are visible on most examples above Good and are unmistakable on well-preserved coins. The variety has attracted collector interest since the nineteenth century, and its memorable nickname has helped maintain its popularity.

As the final year of the Draped Bust design, the 1807 date already draws collector attention. The Comet variety adds a layer of die-error interest that makes the coin appealing to both date collectors and error enthusiasts. Pricing carries a premium over standard 1807 cents, proportional to the visibility of the comet feature and the coin's condition.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G) $162 $187
VG-8 Very Good (VG) $305 $350
F-12 Fine (F) $470 $540
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $1,090 $1,255
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $2,275 $2,625
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU)
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS)
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1807 Comet Draped Bust Large Cent worth?
In Good condition it runs about $162–$187, rising to roughly $2,275–$2,625 in Extremely Fine. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1807 Comet Draped Bust Large Cents were minted?
829,221 were struck (Combined mintage for all 1807 varieties).
What is a 1807 Comet Draped Bust Large Cent made of?
100% Copper, weighing 10.89 g.
What is the melt value of a 1807 Comet 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 1807 Comet 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.