The coin in question is a 1854 Braided Hair Cent, an iconic piece of numismatic history from the United States. It was minted in Philadelphia, which is indicated by the 'P' mint mark. Known for its distinctive design, the Braided Hair Cent features a portrait of Lady Liberty with braided hair on the obverse, symbolizing freedom and strength, surrounded by the inscription "LIBERTY." This coin has a denomination of 1¢ (one cent, commonly referred to as a penny) and is made of copper, which gives it a rich, warm hue. With a diameter of 27.5 mm and a weight of approximately 10.89 grams, it fits comfortably in the hand, reminiscent of the larger cent coins from its era. The production of this particular cent was a mint strike, which refers to coins produced for circulation; this guarantees a fresh and well-defined design as compared to other methods of coin production. The 1854 Braided Hair Cent had a total mintage of 4,236,156, making it a more accessible collectible among 19th-century American coins, though its condition and grade can significantly affect its market value. Overall, this piece not only represents the monetary system of its time but also embodies the craft of coin-making that has evolved throughout American history. It stands as a tangible connection to 19th-century life in the United States, reflecting both its economic and artistic heritage.
| currency | USD |
| currency-amount | 0.01 |
| diameter | 27.5 |
| height | 0 |
| material | Copper |
| mint-mark | P |
| mintage | 4236156 |
| type | Coins |
| weight | 10.89 |
| width | 0 |
| year-display | 1854 |