1836–1857 Large Cents 5-Coin Set VG

Get Your Large Cents Here!

The Lincoln Cent is the longest-running design in U.S. Mint history. But it’s certainly not our first Cent, and definitely not our largest! About the size of a half dollar, the Large Cent was one of the first coin types struck by the U.S. Mint in 1793 – just one year after the mint first opened its doors! Now you can secure a handful of these classic Large Cents in Very Good (VG) condition, meaning they actually changed hands in commerce more than 160 years ago.

Large cents were popular in the early 1800s – but not just for use in commerce. Some were nailed to new buildings or to a sailing ship’s mast for good luck. Some were punched and then threaded with a string and worn as a way to ward off various ailments. At only one cent apiece, these coins worked well as readily available and inexpensive charms. Some were even carried by soldiers in the Civil War in the hopes that the big coins would stop a bullet. After the Civil War, however, these coins were no longer accepted as legal tender so many were fashioned into gears, washers and other parts to keep machinery running. Others were tossed away into drawers and forgotten.

What can’t be forgotten is the importance and beauty of these coins. Many variations of Lady Liberty appeared on the Large Cent coins struck up to 1857, but the reverse remained essentially the same – the denomination of “ONE CENT” surrounded by a wreath encircled by the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” In this 5-coin set, you’re guaranteed to get five different dates between 1836 and 1857. Dates vary. Your set will also come housed in a pouch and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. If you’ve never collected Large Cents before, this is the place to start!