The 1822 Liberty Head Large Cent is a great collector’s item and is one that is growing in popularity all the time. Though these coins were minted many years ago, they are still extremely popular and there are plenty still available for purchase. With that being said, the quantity of these coins is something that is always diminishing.
On the obverse side of the Liberty Head Large Cent, you will notice that the image of Lady Liberty is situated in the center of the face. The leftward-facing Lady Liberty is wearing a band on her head, and within that band is an inscription which reads “Liberty.” Beneath the central image is an inscription marking the 1822 year of minting. Finally, there are 13 stars around the outside of the obverse, commemorating the 13 original colonies of the United States.
The reverse side of the 1822 Liberty Head Large Cent features the “One Cent” face value in the center. Around the central face value inscription is an ornate, detailed wreath that is completely surrounding the inscription. Around this is another inscription that reads “United States of America.” Finally, on both the obverse and reverse sides of the coin, you will see a bunch of rays that give the coin some added texture.
For collectors, not just any Liberty Head Large Cent will do. Because these coins are so old, they are counterfeited by unscrupulous individuals all the time. As such, collectors will only prefer those Liberty Heads that have been graded. As such, we have outlined the different coin grades below.
Uncirculated: A coin determined to be of Uncirculated grade is one that never made it out into the open market. These pieces will look today exactly like they did in 1822 when they were first minted. All things considered, these coins are the absolute most sought after.
Extremely Fine: Extremely Fine is the grade given to coins that were not likely circulated, but will have some signs of damage. Whether it is a single scratch or two, or something else small, there will be some signs of damage. Still, these Large Cents will be in very well-preserved condition.
Fine: A coin determined to be of Fine grade is one that has been circulated extensively, but will not be overly damaged. The surfaces of these coins will be lightly scratched and worn away, but all in all they will still be in decent shape.
Good: Good is the grade given to the absolutely most worn coins. These coins are going to be extremely worn and scratched. In fact, the damage will be so severe that some of the raised aspects of the coin will be entirely worn away.
When it comes to determining a price for the 1822 Large Cent, this is something that depends on both the scarcity and condition of the coin. When it comes to the scarcity, it almost goes without saying that the fewer coins there are, the more expensive they are going to be. Beyond that, the condition of the coin is extremely important. The more well-preserved the coin is, the more expensive it is going to be. Below, there is a chart that is aimed at giving you a better idea of what the 1822 Liberty Head Large Cent will cost given the grade.
Large Cents
DATE | GOOD | FINE | EXTREMELY FINE | UNCIRCULATED |
---|---|---|---|---|
1822 Liberty Head | $25 | $45 | $425 | $700 | Source: Red Book |