1839 1C N-11, Booby Head, BN MS(PCGS#37246)

August 2021 ANA U.S. Coins Auction

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

1136

Grade

MS66BN

Price

5,280

Lot Description

1839 Modified Matron Head Cent. N-11. Rarity-1. Booby Head. MS-66 BN (PCGS). CAC. Sharply struck for the die state, the central design elements on both sides are quite sharp and the stars around the obverse periphery are crisp with full centrils. Lustrous surfaces are beautifully toned in medium brown, with plenty of faded rose-apricot color in the more protected areas on both sides. As nice as one should expect given the premium Gem grade assigned by PCGS; there is a tiny toning spot in the obverse field between star 3 and Liberty's nose. The popular Booby Head Guide Bookvariety of the 1839 cent is identifiable by looking at Liberty's shoulder on the obverse, which is exposed. The reverse dies combined with the various Booby Head obverses also omit the line under the word CENT in the denomination. Several die marriages of the Booby Head variety are known, major design changes being especially prolific for the 1839 large cents. Indeed, the years from 1835 through 1839 saw considerable experimentation and modification of the basic Matron Head design type before the Mint finally settled on the Braided Hair motif that -- in its basic form -- would continue in use through the end of the large cent series in 1857. Such a proliferation of types has fascinated and challenged early copper enthusiasts for decades, providing ample collecting opportunities. Indeed, the term Booby Head dates back to the mid 19th century, probably as early as the late 1850s, although not standardized until June of 1868 by Ebenezer Locke Mason, Jr. in his Coin and Stamp Collectors' Magazine. As one of the finest graded examples of both the Booby Head Guide Bookvariety and the 1839 Newcomb-11 dies, this is a significant coin that would serve as a highlight in any cabinet. PCGS Population: 1; only 1 finer (MS-67). PCGS# 37246. NGC ID: 225Z. Click here for certification details from PCGS.