Price Guide for 1811 Cent Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $9.50 – $10,925.00Uncirculated: $1,725.00 – $30,550.00
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eBayCirculated: $52.50 – $4,755.00Uncirculated: $160.00 – $10,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $140.00 – $10,150.00Uncirculated: $10,500.00 – $67,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $48.00 – $66,125.00Uncirculated: $13,800.00 – $41,400.00
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eBayCirculated: $116.00 – $5,295.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $200.00 – $49,500.00Uncirculated: $55,000.00 – $75,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $89,125.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $20,000.00 – $140,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $138,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $325,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $70.00 – $21,150.00Uncirculated: $5,520.00 – $60,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $76.66 – $1,251.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $100.00 – $9,750.00Uncirculated: $10,500.00 – $32,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $70,500.00 – $75,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $75,000.00 – $140,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $198,000.00 – $493,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $450,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $120.00 – $52,800.00Uncirculated: $102,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $224.99 – $380.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $135.00 – $48,000.00Uncirculated: $50,000.00 – $65,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1811 Cent
The 1811 Cent, also known as the Classic Head Large Cent, was part of the early copper coinage of the United States. Designed by Robert Scot, this coin represents a transitional period in American numismatics. It was produced during a time when the young nation was still establishing its monetary system and refining its coin production techniques.
The Classic Head design was short-lived, being used only from 1808 to 1814. These coins were larger and heavier than modern cents, reflecting the intrinsic value of copper at the time.
| Weight | 10.89 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 29 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia Mint only) |
| Composition | 100% Copper |
| Obverse Design | Liberty head facing left, with flowing hair, designed by Robert Scot |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding 'ONE CENT' and fraction '1/100', designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition is crucial for the 1811 Cent’s value. Due to its age and the primitive minting technology of the time, high-grade examples are extremely rare. Coins in Very Fine (VF) condition or better command significant premiums.
The quality of the strike can vary considerably, affecting the coin’s desirability. Well-struck examples with full details are highly sought after. Original red color, when present, can greatly increase value, though most surviving specimens have turned brown over time.
Mintage: 218,025
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades above VF, almost non-existent in Mint State
Varieties Errors: 1811/0 Overdate variety
Market Demand: High, due to scarcity and historical significance
The 1811/0 Overdate variety is particularly valuable and sought after by collectors. This variety shows remnants of an underlying ‘0’ beneath the final ‘1’ in the date.
Early die state examples with sharp details and minimal wear are highly prized. The presence of original mint luster, even if only in protected areas, can significantly increase value.
Collectors also value problem-free surfaces. Any signs of cleaning, corrosion, or environmental damage can severely impact the coin’s worth. Provenance from notable collections can add a premium to the coin’s value.
