1799 Draped Bust Large Cent: The 9 Over 8 Error That Makes It a Rare Treasure

The 1799 Draped Bust Large Cent is an iconic coin from the early years of the United States, and the “9 Over 8” variety is one of the most sought-after versions of this coin. It’s an interesting example of how minting errors can create rare and valuable items. The 1799 Draped Bust Large Cent features the work of engraver Robert Scot and was part of the early coinage produced by the U.S. Mint.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history, characteristics, and significance of the 1799 Draped Bust Large Cent 9 Over 8, as well as how collectors can identify and evaluate this rare variety.

History of the Draped Bust Large Cent

The Draped Bust design was introduced in 1796 and lasted until 1807. The coins were part of the United States’ effort to establish a national currency after the country gained independence. These coins were produced at the Philadelphia Mint, and the design was meant to represent the young nation.

The Large Cent coins were quite large in size compared to later cent coins, with a diameter of around 29 mm. They were made of copper and were widely circulated during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Over time, collectors began to appreciate the history behind these coins, and rare varieties, like the 9 Over 8, became highly valuable.

Understanding the 9 Over 8 Variety

The “9 Over 8” variety refers to a minting error where the digit “9” was stamped over the previous digit “8” on the die used to strike the coins. This happens when a mistake is made during the production process, and the mint uses a die that was not fully corrected from a previous year. The result is a coin where the number 9 appears to be layered over the number 8.

This particular error is found on some of the 1799 Draped Bust Large Cents, and it makes these coins highly collectible. The 1799 date is already significant because of the limited production during that year, and the 9 Over 8 error adds to the rarity of the coin.

Physical Characteristics of the 1799 Draped Bust Large Cent: 9 Over 8

The 1799 Draped Bust Large Cent is a beautiful example of early American coinage. It features the Draped Bust design on the obverse (front) and the Small Eagle on the reverse (back).

• Obverse: The obverse of the coin features a portrait of Lady Liberty, with her hair draped over her shoulder. The word “LIBERTY” is inscribed above the image, and the date “1799” appears below the portrait. On coins with the “9 Over 8” variety, you can see the faint outline of the “8” beneath the “9.”
• Reverse: The reverse shows a small eagle with outstretched wings, surrounded by a wreath. The words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” surround the eagle, and the coin has no mintmark as it was produced in Philadelphia.

How to Identify the 9 Over 8 Coin

Identifying a 1799 Draped Bust Large Cent with the 9 Over 8 variety requires careful inspection. The minting error is subtle but can be spotted with attention to detail.

• Look for the faint outline of the “8” underneath the “9”. This is the most obvious sign of the variety.
• Examine the date closely. The 9 is clearly stamped over the top of the 8, and while the 8 is often faint, it can still be discerned with a magnifying tool.

It’s important to note that while the 9 Over 8 variety is rare, not all 1799 Draped Bust Large Cents show this minting error. This makes the coins with this particular error more valuable to collectors.

Why Is the 1799 Draped Bust Large Cent 9 Over 8 So Valuable?

The 1799 Draped Bust Large Cent 9 Over 8 is highly valuable for a few reasons:

1. Minting Error: The 9 Over 8 variety is a rare minting error, and error coins are often worth more than regular ones.
2. Historical Significance: The coin was made in the early years of the United States Mint, and coins from this period have great historical importance.
3. Scarcity: Only a small number of 1799 Draped Bust Large Cents exist, and even fewer have the 9 Over 8 error, making them highly sought after by collectors.

Price and Value of the 1799 Draped Bust Large Cent: 9 Over 8

The value of the 1799 Draped Bust Large Cent 9 Over 8 can vary based on its condition, rarity, and demand. On average, coins in better condition can sell for several thousand dollars. The more worn coins might still fetch hundreds of dollars at auction, depending on the buyer’s interest in error coins.

Conclusion

The 1799 Draped Bust Large Cent: 9 Over 8 is a remarkable piece of American history and coinage. This rare minting error, combined with the historical significance of the coin, makes it highly sought after by collectors. If you’re fortunate enough to own one, it could be a valuable addition to your collection. Always remember to verify its authenticity and condition before seeking its true value.

Table of the 1799 Draped Bust Large Cent: 9 Over 8

Feature	Description
Coin Name	1799 Draped Bust Large Cent: 9 Over 8
Mint Year	1799
Design	Draped Bust (obverse), Small Eagle (reverse)
Diameter	29 mm
Weight	13.48 grams
Material	Copper
Mint Location	Philadelphia, U.S. Mint
Minting Error	9 Over 8 variety (9 stamped over 8 on the die)
Obverse Image	Lady Liberty with draped hair, “LIBERTY” inscription, date “1799”
Reverse Image	Small eagle surrounded by a wreath, “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”
Rarity	Rare, with fewer examples of the 9 Over 8 variety
Value	Can range from hundreds to several thousand dollars depending on condition
Identifying Feature	Look for the faint “8” beneath the “9” in the date

Home

FAQs