Wreath cent
The Wreath cent was an American large cent. It was the second design type, following the Chain cent in 1793. It was produced only during that year.
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[edit] Obverse design
The obverse design consisted of a stylized Liberty head with flowing hair. The inscription "LIBERTY" appeared above the portrait. Below it was a three-leaved sprig and the date. The design of the Liberty head was modified somewhat from that of the Chain cent to address public criticism.
[edit] Reverse design
The reverse's central design figure, for which the coin is named, was a wreath. The words "ONE CENT" appeared within the wreath, and the corresponding fraction "1/100" appeared beneath it. Along the outer edge was inscribed "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA". A decorative beaded border was added along the rim.
[edit] Varieties
Approximately 63,353 Wreath cents were struck. Early specimens featured a stylized "vine/bars" design on the edges of the planchet, which was identical to that of the earlier Chain cent. Later on, this was changed to a lettered edge reading "ONE HUNDRED FOR A DOLLAR". Early American copper collectors generally categorize the coins still further into thirteen different varieties under the Sheldon system.[1][2] Most of these variations entail relatively minor changes, and often require careful examination to discern. One variety, however, is far more recognizable: the "Strawberry Leaf". On these strikings, the trefoil sprig above the date took the form of a strawberry plant. Only four such specimens are known, and all are heavily circulated. The finest known Strawberry Leaf cent sold at auction for $414,000 in November 2004.[3]
[edit] References
- ^ 1793 Wreath Cents, Collectors Universe, Inc., http://www.coinfacts.com/large_cents/1793_wreath_cents/1793_wreath_cent.htm
- ^ 1793 Wreath Cent Varieties, Collectors Universe, Inc., http://www.coinfacts.com/large_cents/1793_wreath_cents/1793_wreath_cent_varieties.htm
- ^ Kyle, Robert (2005), Rare 1793 U.S. Cent Found in Maine Sells for $414,000, Maine Antique Digest, http://maineantiquedigest.com/articles_archive/articles/feb05/coin0205.htm
| Preceded by Chain cent |
United States one-cent coin 1793 |
Succeeded by Liberty Cap cent |
