1843 Braided Hair Large Cent – Petite Head of 1840, Small Letters

Mintage:
2,425,342

Notable Facts:

• The 1843 “Petite Head of 1840” variety features a smaller, more delicate Liberty portrait and is distinguished from the later “Mature Head” redesign that began mid-year.

• This variety also shows Small Letters in the legend, making it a key type for variety specialists tracking early refinements in the Braided Hair series.

Description:
This 1843 Braided Hair Large Cent is a notable example of the early “Petite Head of 1840” type, struck with Small Letters in the inscription—both of which were phased out later that same year. With a mintage just over 2.4 million, this coin represents a transitional phase in U.S. copper cent design, where subtle adjustments were made to improve aesthetics and die longevity. Offered raw and uncertified from a private collection, this piece displays a rich, dark brown patina across its original surfaces. High-resolution images of both sides are provided, allowing collectors to clearly examine detail and character.