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The 1849 U.S. Half Cent with the Braided Hair design and Large Date variety, in Extra Fine (XF) condition, is a distinguished example of late-series American copper coinage. As part of the final redesign of the half cent series, the Braided Hair type was minted from 1840 through the denomination’s discontinuation in 1857. The 1849 issue, particularly the Large Date variety, represents a matured U.S. Mint design during a period of national expansion and industrial growth. In XF condition, the coin retains most of its intricate details and sharp definition, making it a desirable acquisition for collectors focused on 19th-century U.S. type coins and advanced copper specialists alike.
The obverse of the 1849 Braided Hair Half Cent features a profile of Liberty facing left, designed by Chief Engraver Christian Gobrecht. Liberty wears a coronet inscribed with the word “LIBERTY,” and her hair is drawn back into a braided bun, lending the design its name. Thirteen stars encircle the portrait, symbolizing the original colonies, with the date “1849” positioned below. The Large Date variety is distinguished by numerals that appear tall and bold, with the “8” and “9” especially prominent compared to the Small Date variant. In XF condition, Liberty’s facial features, coronet inscription, and hair details are still strong, with only slight wear visible on the highest points, such as her cheek and the tops of her hair curls. The rims are full and sharp, and all stars remain clear and distinct.
The reverse design displays a carefully rendered laurel wreath encircling the denomination “HALF CENT.” The wreath is tied with a bow at the base and consists of detailed leaves that curve inward toward the inscription. Around the outer perimeter of the reverse are the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” The coin’s edge is plain, consistent with others in the Braided Hair series. On an XF example, the wreath remains sharp with minimal flattening on the leaves and bow, and the central denomination and surrounding text are completely legible with strong relief. This level of detail enhances both the coin’s eye appeal and its market value.
The 1849 Braided Hair Half Cent was minted exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the only U.S. minting facility producing half cents during this period. The total mintage for the year was 39,864 pieces, a relatively low figure by modern standards but typical for the twilight years of half cent production. Most of these coins entered circulation, and as a result, examples in high condition such as Extra Fine are considerably less common. Moreover, the 1849 issue is known for having two primary varieties—Large Date and Small Date—with the Large Date being the more readily available of the two, though still scarce in better grades.
The Braided Hair half cent series marked the last phase in the denomination’s history. The U.S. Congress discontinued the half cent in 1857, largely because inflation had rendered the denomination obsolete. In fact, the half cent had long been unpopular in commercial use due to its low purchasing power and limited utility. However, its role in early U.S. commerce was significant, particularly before the proliferation of small-denomination paper currency and widespread coinage from other countries. The Braided Hair redesign represented a final effort to modernize the appearance of the denomination, aligning it visually with the contemporary Large Cent series, which also adopted Gobrecht’s neoclassical styling.
In XF condition, this 1849 Large Date half cent is considered a collector-grade example with a well-preserved appearance. XF coins exhibit light but even wear across the high points, with sharp detail in the devices and minimal disruption to the coin’s surface. The fields may show a touch of softness, but no major marks or corrosion should be present. Toning may vary from chocolate brown to reddish-brown or even olive hues, depending on storage history and environmental exposure. Collectors favor examples with uniform, original patina and smooth surfaces free of damage or cleaning, which can significantly reduce a coin’s desirability and value.
Die varieties in the Braided Hair half cent series, including those of 1849, are well documented in numismatic literature such as the Cohen and Breen references. While most XF collectors prioritize type and date, specialists often pursue specific die states, repunched dates, or positional anomalies. The Large Date variety of 1849 is clearly distinguishable from the Small Date version and is essential for anyone assembling a complete die variety or major type collection within the series. Attribution guides and side-by-side comparison charts help confirm the correct classification of these varieties, even in circulated condition.
The 1849 Braided Hair Half Cent in XF condition represents a balanced choice between affordability and eye appeal. It is significantly more detailed than common Fine or Very Fine specimens, yet much more accessible than AU or Mint State examples, which can command substantial premiums due to their rarity. This grade allows collectors to appreciate the artistry and minting quality of the piece without the cost barrier of higher-grade coins. Additionally, its historical significance as part of a discontinued denomination and as a product of Gobrecht’s design legacy enhances its collectible value.
For type set builders, the Braided Hair Half Cent fills a critical role as the last design in the denomination’s lineage. Along with the Liberty Cap and Classic Head types, it offers a full visual chronology of early American copper coinage. The 1849 issue, specifically, with its bold date and well-executed strike, makes for an attractive representative. In XF condition, it remains pleasing to the eye, providing both depth of history and sharpness of detail.
The U.S. Half Cent 1849 Braided Hair Large Date in Extra Fine condition is a compelling piece of American numismatic heritage. It offers a glimpse into the final chapter of a now-extinct denomination, produced at a time of national transformation and economic modernization. Its classical design, limited mintage, and collector-grade preservation make it a sought-after coin for early U.S. copper enthusiasts, serious collectors, and students of 19th-century mint artistry alike.