Diagnostic Controls & Presets Rarest Large Cent Variety
Diagnostic Forensic Readings
Forensic Attribution Diagnostic
Real-time metallurgical and die variety cross-examination verified against certified populations.
Technical Breakdown: Physics, Metallurgy & Die Diagnostics
Struck between April and July 1793 by Chief Coiner Henry Voigt using dies engraved by portraitist Joseph Wright.
Cataloged by Dr. William H. Sheldon as NC-2 and NC-3. Only four genuine examples have ever been confirmed.
Documented Benchmark Auction Records
One of only 4 known specimens; discovered in a European collection in the 19th century and authenticated by PCGS.
Finest known example of Joseph Wright's masterpiece; shimmering reddish-brown satiny surfaces.
Sharp, intact olive wreath and bold reverse lettered edge reading ONE HUNDRED FOR A DOLLAR.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 1793 Flowing Hair Wreath Cent?
The 1793 Wreath Cent was the second regular-issue coin struck by the United States Mint, introduced in April 1793 to replace the controversial Chain Cent. Designed by talented portrait artist Joseph Wright, it featured a calm, dignified Miss Liberty with an elegant laurel wreath on the reverse.
What is the 'Strawberry Leaf' variety?
The 'Strawberry Leaf' (Sheldon NC-2 and NC-3) is the most celebrated rarity in early American copper. Instead of the standard triple olive leaves positioned directly above the 1793 date, the die was cut with a distinctive spray of three serrated wild strawberry leaves. Only four authentic specimens are known to exist.
Who engraved the Strawberry Leaf die?
It is believed to be an experimental die cut by Joseph Wright shortly before he tragically died of yellow fever during the Philadelphia epidemic of autumn 1793. The die broke almost immediately, accounting for its extreme rarity.
What are the edge varieties on 1793 Wreath Cents?
Early Wreath cents (Sheldon-5 to 10) have an ornamental edge pattern consisting of alternating vine leaves and vertical bars. Late strikes (Sheldon-11a and 11b) feature an incuse lettered edge: 'ONE HUNDRED FOR A DOLLAR' followed by a leaf.
How many 1793 Wreath Cents were minted?
A total of 63,353 Wreath Cents were struck between April 9 and July 17, 1793, before production was halted due to broken dies and the seasonal yellow fever epidemic.
How can I detect an altered Strawberry Leaf cent?
Because a genuine Strawberry Leaf is worth nearly a million dollars, counterfeiters frequently take a common 1793 Wreath Cent (worth $5,000) and use jewelers' gravers to carve serrations into the standard olive leaves. Stereomicroscopy will reveal unnatural tool marks, interrupted field flow lines, and missing die clash diagnostics of the authentic NC-2/3 obverse.
How much is a 1793 Wreath Cent worth?
A standard 1793 Wreath Cent in Good-4 condition is worth $4,500 to $6,500. In Very Fine condition, it sells for $18,000 to $30,000. In About Uncirculated condition, it brings $75,000 to $120,000. If it is one of the four genuine Strawberry Leaf specimens, it commands over $850,000.