1808–1814: Classic Head Large Cent

1808–1814: Classic Head Large Cent history

1808–1814: Classic Head Large Cent replaced the Draped Bust cent with John Reich’s compact Classic Head portrait. The design was struck on the reduced large-cent standard and is recognized by Liberty’s fillet, the date below, and ONE CENT within a reverse wreath.

Copper quality and planchet preparation varied during this period, so porosity, dark color, and uneven strikes are common. The series ends with 1814; cent production then paused before the Matron Head design appeared in 1816.