The Draped Bust cent, from Gilbert Stuart’s design rendered by Robert Scot, ran from 1796 through 1807 — the same portrait used across early U.S. silver. The obverse shows Liberty with drapery and a ribbon in her hair; the reverse keeps the open wreath around ONE CENT and the fraction 1/100.
Key facts
- Designed by: Robert Scot (concept by Gilbert Stuart)
- Issue dates: 1796–1807
- Composition: Pure copper
- Diameter: 29 mm
- Weight: 10.88 grams (168 grains)
- Edge: Plain
- Mintage: 16,111,810
The two key dates are the 1799 — the rarest date in the entire large cent series (and heavily counterfeited/altered, so verify against Sheldon) — and the 1804, a longtime classic rarity. The series is also rich in collectible die blunders: the 1796 LIHERTY, the 1798/7 overdate (the first in the series), the 1801 “Three Errors” reverse (1/000 fraction, missing stem, IINITED), and the celebrated 1807 Comet variety. Most other dates are available from Fair through Extremely Fine; AU is rare and Mint State extremely rare.
We actively buy Draped Bust cents in every grade, from well-worn type coins to the key 1799 and 1804 and famous die varieties. Send photos for a free, no-obligation offer.