Flowing Hair Wreath Cent Guide
The Flowing Hair Wreath Cent was the United States Mint’s second attempt at a circulating currency, struck only in 1793. Following the intense public criticism of the “Chain” reverse—which many felt symbolized slavery rather than unity—Chief Coiner Henry Voigt redesigned the reverse to feature a lush, circular wreath. This series is a cornerstone of early American copper, representing a significant leap in both production quality and artistic maturity during the Mint’s first year of operation.
Design Evolution: From Chains to Leaves
While the obverse of the Flowing Hair Wreath Cent retains the wild, flowing hair of Liberty seen on its predecessor, the portrait was significantly refined. The relief is generally higher, and Liberty appears slightly more “composed.” However, the reverse is the true star. Voigt replaced the interlocking links with a wreath of laurel or olive leaves, tied at the bottom with a bow. Inside the wreath is the denomination “ONE CENT,” and surrounding it is the legend “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”
One interesting addition to this design is the presence of a “sprig” of leaves (usually three) located just above the date on the obverse. This was likely an attempt to fill the empty field space and balance the composition, a detail that was removed in subsequent “Liberty Cap” designs.
The “Strawberry Leaf” and Other Major Varieties
In the world of the Flowing Hair Wreath Cent, not all wreaths are created equal. Because each die was hand-engraved, there are several famous varieties that command massive premiums and drive specialists into a frenzy.
- The Strawberry Leaf (Sheldon-NC-2 & NC-3): This is one of the most famous rarities in all of numismatics. Instead of the standard laurel leaves above the date, this variety features leaves that look remarkably like strawberry leaves. Only four specimens are known to exist, making it a “Non-Collectable” (NC) for all but the most elite auctions.
- The Large Date vs. Small Date: Variations in the size of the “1793” punch.
- Double Leaf Reverse: Some dies show a distinct doubling of the leaves in the wreath, a result of die preparation errors that were common in the primitive Philadelphia Mint.
Edge Lettering and Edge Devices
The Flowing Hair Wreath Cent also serves as a laboratory for edge experimentation. Unlike modern coins with reeded or plain edges, 1793 cents used the edge as a security feature and a space for additional information. There are three primary edge types found on Wreath Cents:
| Edge Type | Description | Rarity/Context |
|---|---|---|
| Vine and Bars | A decorative pattern of vertical bars and grapevines. | The standard edge carried over from the Chain Cent. |
| One Hundred For a Dollar | Lettering stating the exchange rate of the coin. | Found on later Wreath strikes; a precursor to the Liberty Cap edge. |
| Plain Edge | No design or lettering. | Extremely rare; usually considered an error or a trial piece. |
Grading Challenges for 1793 Coppers
Collectors seeking a Flowing Hair Wreath Cent must navigate a minefield of condition issues. The copper planchets used in 1793 were often porous, leading to a “pitted” or “rough” appearance. Furthermore, because these coins circulated heavily, the high points of Liberty’s hair and the leaves of the wreath are often worn smooth.
When evaluating a specimen, look for “planchet color” and “hard surfaces.” A Wreath Cent with a glossy, dark chocolate-brown patina is significantly more valuable than one with “environmental damage” (ED), even if the latter has sharper details. Most available examples fall into the AG-3 (About Good) to VG-8 (Very Good) range. Coins in Fine or better condition are considered “condition rarities.”
Historical Significance of the Wreath Design
The Flowing Hair Wreath Cent was the first coin to truly find acceptance among the American public. With a mintage of 63,353—nearly double that of the Chain Cent—it became the primary copper currency of the United States for a brief window in late 1793. It saw the transition of the Mint from an experimental workshop into a functioning government institution. To own a Wreath Cent is to own the first “successful” coin of the United States, a piece that survived the yellow fever epidemic that shuttered the Philadelphia Mint just months after these coins were struck.