U.S. Mint coin reference

1793-1796 Liberty Cap Large Cent

Liberty Cap large cents are classic early U.S. copper coins with many collectible varieties.

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Coin specifications and design

Years made: 1793-1796

Country: United States

Denomination: One cent

Category: Circulating coin

Composition: Copper

Silver fineness: None

Silver weight: 0.00 oz ASW

Weight: 13.48 g early; 10.89 g later

Diameter: 26-29 mm

Thickness: Approx. 2.0-2.5 mm

Edge: Plain or lettered by issue

Designer: Joseph Wright associated with the 1793 design; later work associated with Robert Scot and the Mint engraving staff

Design identification

Obverse: Liberty facing right with a liberty cap on a pole behind the portrait.

1793–1796 Liberty Cap Large Cent history notes

The Liberty Cap cent began late in 1793 with a portrait attributed to Joseph Wright. Later dies in the 1794–1796 series reflect work associated with Chief Engraver Robert Scot and the Mint engraving staff, so the type should not be assigned to Wright and John Smith Gardner as though they jointly designed every issue.

The federal cent standard changed during this type’s life. Early pieces were struck near 208 grains, about 13.48 grams; later planchets used the reduced 168-grain standard, about 10.89 grams. Date and variety therefore matter when checking weight and edge details.