Discover a genuine piece of early American history with this 1798 Large Cent Draped Bust certified by ANACS. Graded F-12 (Fine 12) with noted Style 2 Hair Details, this classic United States large cent represents one of the most sought-after early Federal coinage issues. Struck during the infancy of the United States Mint, this coin offers collectors a tangible connection to the nation's founding era.

The Draped Bust design, created by renowned artist Gilbert Stuart and engraved by Robert Scot, features a graceful portrayal of Liberty with flowing drapery across her shoulder. The Style 2 Hair variety is particularly prized by numismatists for its distinct hair styling that differs from the earlier Style 1 examples. In Fine-12 condition, this 1798 Large Cent displays moderate, even wear while maintaining clear definition of the major design elements, making it an excellent representative example for both type collectors and variety specialists.

Large cents from the 1790s are becoming increasingly difficult to acquire in collectible grades. These substantial copper coins, roughly the size of a modern half dollar, were the first circulating one-cent pieces authorized by the Coinage Act of 1792. Each coin was individually struck by hand on screw presses, giving every surviving example unique characteristics that serious collectors treasure.

Coin Specifications

• Date: 1798
• Denomination: One Cent ($0.01)
• Mint: Philadelphia (no mintmark)
• Composition: 100% Copper
• Diameter: Approximately 29mm
• Weight: Approximately 10.89 grams
• Design: Draped Bust Obverse / Wreath Reverse
• Variety: Style 2 Hair (S-2 Hair Style)
• Grade: ANACS F-12 (Fine 12)
• Certification: ANACS Certified
• Condition Notes: Style 2 Hair Details

Historical Significance

The year 1798 was a tumultuous period in American history. The young nation faced international challenges including the Quasi-War with France, while domestically the Alien and Sedition Acts were passed amid growing political tensions between Federalists and Democratic-Republicans. Against this backdrop, the Philadelphia Mint continued its challenging task of producing much-needed circulating coinage with limited resources and technology.

The Draped Bust Large Cent series was produced from 1796 through 1807. The 1798 issue is particularly notable for having multiple die varieties, with the Style 2 Hair being one of the most recognized. These coins circulated heavily in early America, often serving as the primary medium of exchange for everyday transactions when smaller denomination coins were desperately needed.

Surviving examples from this era have typically experienced significant wear from over two centuries of handling. A certified Fine-12 specimen such as this represents a coin that has survived in remarkably presentable condition, showing clear details of Liberty's profile, the drapery folds, and the wreath on the reverse. The rich chocolate-brown patina typically found on these early coppers adds to their visual appeal and historical character.

Whether you're building a complete set of early large cents, assembling a type collection of Federal coinage, or simply seeking an authentic artifact from America's formative years, this ANACS certified 1798 Draped Bust Large Cent offers exceptional value. Its combination of rarity, historical importance, and certified authenticity makes it a cornerstone piece for any serious numismatic collection.

Each 1798 Large Cent tells its own story of early American commerce and the birth of the United States monetary system. Own a piece of history that circulated when George Washington, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson walked the streets of Philadelphia. This certified example with Style 2 Hair details represents a premium collecting opportunity for discerning numismatists and history enthusiasts alike.