Liberty Cap Large Cent (1793-1796)
Mint Mark Information

There are three versions of the 1793 Large Cent. The Chain reverse design appeared in March, but was quickly discarded because many people viewed the chain as something opposite of liberty (it was meant to symbolize unity).

The chain was replaced by a more acceptable wreath, but Lady Liberty remained an object of ridicule by some who thought she looked wild and frightened.

In August 1793, the US Mint hired Joseph Wright as Engraver. Director David Rittenhouse put him to work right away on a new design for the large cent. Wright “combed” Liberty’s hair and gave her a calmer demeanor.

Borrowing from the Libertas Americana medal, Wright added a Phrygian cap (worn by newly liberated slaves in ancient times to announce their freedom). The cap was placed atop a pole, a clear connection to the time before and during the American Revolution, when patriots raised “liberty poles” crowned with the Phrygian cap, an act of defiance against British rule.

In the autumn of 1793, the Liberty Cap Large Cent was released. Wright did not live to see his creation, succumbing to the Yellow Fever epidemic that swept through Philadelphia in September 1793.

Liberty Cap Large Cent Obverse

Liberty Cap Large Cent Reverse

The following table lists the Mint Marks you might find on Liberty Cap Large Cent:

There are no Mint Marks to search for on the Liberty Cap Large Cent, as is true for all Half Cents and Large Cents. These early United States copper coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint, which did not use a Mint Mark for the first time until 1942. The coin photos at right were provided by courtesy of Goldberg Coins.

Most US coin collectors relish the chance to own a Liberty Cap Large Cent of any date. However, there a few Liberty Cap dates of severe rarity and high value, having records of consistent price increases over a long period of time. This is something we can expect to see in the future. Two key date Liberty Cap Large Cents (that is, if you're lucky enough to find any for sale) are:

1793 Liberty Cap Large Cent

1794 Liberty Cap Starred Rev