Flowing Hair Wreath (1793)

The Flowing Hair Wreath was an American Large Cent that was only minted in 1793. It was designed by Henry Voight. Because the minting was still in its infantry, only 63,353 were struck.



Design

 * The obverse of the Flowing Hair Wreath shows Lady Liberty with "flowing hair" with LIBERTY written across the top and the date under. Under Lady Liberty's head is a three-leaved sprig. If there are strawberry leaves (as shown below) the coin could be quite valuble.


 * The reverse shows a wreath, replacing the chain found on the Flowing Hair Chain, which was widely hated by the public. In the center of the wreath were the words ONE CENT, and below that was the proportion 1/100 meaning 100 for $1. Around the wreath is UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
 * The edge can show leaves with colomns or it could show lettering. The lettering is worth more.

Other Details

 * Weight:13.48 grams
 * Diameter: 27 millimeters
 * Metal Content: 100% Copper
 * Auction Record: $329,000

The Public
The public really hated the previous large cent. One newspaper even said that Lady Liberty looked like she was frightened, and while the reverse chain was ment to symbolize the thoughness and togetherness of the newly found Union, many interpreted it as representive of slavery. The mint then made the chain into a wreath, and added the sprig to take your eyes off of the woman.