1794 1C Apple Cheek, S-24, BN MS(PCGS#35537)

Spring 2026 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

2079

Grade

XF45BN

Price

6,600

Lot Description

Heck DS6, Breen Die State V. This is a lovely Choice EF Liberty Cap cent, both sides hard and frosty in texture with appreciable gloss. Handsome medium brown patina throughout, marbled golden-brown and reddish-russet highlights are more pronounced on the reverse. Boldly defined overall from a well centered, nicely executed strike, there is much to recommend this coin to discerning early copper enthusiasts. This variety's fame and desirability is enduring, supported by the "exceptionally rounded, full cheeks... by which collectors recognize it easily," in Dr. Sheldon's words. Sheldon wrote that his "father used to call it the Apple Cheek variety," the name derived from engraver Robert Scot's unusually deep cutting of Liberty's cheek into the die. This colorful moniker has clung to it since the publication of <em>Early American Cents</em>. Even when well worn, the "Apple Cheek" is lovely, with sculptural relief and abundant personality. In higher grades, as here, it is especially impressive.