Large Liberty Head Cent, dated “1812”, dug off Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg

Liberty Head Large Cents are coins that are important to collectors both in the United States and around the world. Nowadays, the coins are sought after not only because of its attractive design, but also due to the fact that the piece represents a part of American history. This one is dated “1812” and has the additional significance of the War of 1812. It was found just off the Baltimore Pike in Gettysburg (see map).

Large Cent coins were first minted in 1793 but faced immediate public dissatisfaction due to the U.S. law barring the use of any metal other than Silver and Gold as legal tender. Because of this, Large Cents were not able to be used to pay taxes or any other government payment.

Large cents are found at Civil War campsites and battlefields, many soldiers from both sides carried them. The coin is  just as found but could be cleaned up a little if desired. It comes in the glass top display case pictured. A nice piece of Gettysburg History.