The 1793 Wreath Cent is a fascinating piece of American history. As one of the first one-cent coins made by the United States Mint, this coin tells us about the early days of American currency. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes the 1793 Wreath Cent so special, how many of them still exist, and what collectors should know about this rare coin.
What Is the 1793 Wreath Cent?
The 1793 Wreath Cent is the second of three one-cent coin designs issued by the United States Mint in 1793. This was the first year for the Mint, which opened in Philadelphia. The design changed from the previous Chain Cent due to public complaints. People felt that the chain symbol on the back of the coin looked like a sign of bondage.
To respond to these concerns, Mint Director David Rittenhouse ordered a new design. Henry Voigt was tasked with creating the new coin design. The front of the coin, or obverse, kept some features from the Chain Cent but made some slight changes. The back, or reverse, of the coin now featured a beautiful ornamental wreath, which was inspired by patterns from earlier coins made in 1792.
Production of the Wreath Cent
The Wreath Cent production started on April 4, 1793, and continued until April 19. The Mint quickly ran out of copper planchets (the flat pieces of metal used to make coins). Later in June, the Mint received more copper and made another batch of Wreath cents.
Here’s a table showing the deliveries of the 1793 Wreath Cent:
| Date | Coins Delivered |
|---|---|
| April 9, 1793 | 12,000 |
| April 13, 1793 | 6,112 |
| April 16, 1793 | 8,000 |
| April 17, 1793 | 7,000 |
| April 18, 1793 | 6,000 |
| April 19, 1793 | 4,240 |
| June 28, 1793 | 8,000 |
| July 6, 1793 | 11,825 |
| July 17, 1793 | 176 |
| Total | 63,353 |
The last Wreath Cents were made on September 17, 1793. This was just before the Mint had to stop production due to a yellow fever outbreak in Philadelphia and the sad death of Chief Engraver Joseph Wright and his wife.
How Many 1793 Wreath Cents Still Exist?
The 1793 Wreath Cent is very rare, with fewer than 5,000 coins believed to still be around. Most of the remaining coins are in poor condition because they were used in everyday transactions. The best-preserved examples were often kept by collectors or merchants who appreciated early American coins.
When the large cent was no longer made in 1857, people became more interested in collecting these early coins, which led to many lower-grade Wreath Cents being saved.
Notable Facts about the 1793 Wreath Cent
An interesting trivia note is that one of these coins actually went to outer space! A 1793 Wreath Cent was included in a medical kit on the Gemini VII spacecraft, thanks to Minnesota coin dealer William J. Ulrich, Sr. and flight surgeon Howard A. Miners.
How Much Is the 1793 Wreath Cent Worth?
The Wreath Cent is very valuable and can be hard to find in good condition. Here’s a rough idea of how much they can sell for:
- Worn coins: Minimum of $2,000
- Good condition coins: Typically range from $5,000 to $50,000
- Perfect condition coins: Can go for $1,000,000 or more
If you’re thinking of buying a 1793 Wreath Cent, it’s important to get it checked by a professional grading service like CAC, NGC, or PCGS to make sure it’s real.
Important 1793 Wreath Cent Varieties
There are different types of 1793 Wreath Cents, and some are more valuable than others. Here’s a summary of some notable varieties:
| Variety | Description | Price History (Recent) |
|---|---|---|
| Sheldon-5 | Finest known example, PCGS MS-64+BN | Sold for around $1,000,000 |
| Sheldon-6 | Vine and Bars Edge, PCGS MS67RB | Sold for around $375,000 |
| Sheldon-8 | Common variety, known for its die crack | Sold for around $40,250 |
| Strawberry Leaf | Rare, only four known examples | Sold for around $660,000 |
Conclusion
The 1793 Wreath Cent is not just a coin; it’s a piece of history that collectors highly value. Its unique design, limited quantity, and interesting backstory make it an exciting topic for both new and experienced coin enthusiasts. If you’re lucky enough to come across one, remember its significant value and consider getting it professionally graded. Collecting coins like the 1793 Wreath Cent can be a rewarding hobby that connects you with America’s past.
FAQ’s
What is the 1793 Wreath Cent?
The 1793 Wreath Cent is one of the first one-cent coins produced by the United States Mint. It features a wreath on the reverse side and was created to replace the Chain Cent, addressing public concerns about its design.
How many 1793 Wreath Cents are still in existence?
Fewer than 5,000 1793 Wreath Cents are believed to still exist today, with many in poor condition due to heavy circulation. Well-preserved examples are highly sought after by collectors.
What is the value of a 1793 Wreath Cent?
The value of a 1793 Wreath Cent can vary widely based on its condition. Worn coins can start around $2,000, while well-preserved specimens can sell for $50,000 or more. Exceptional pieces may reach over $1 million at auction.