1807 Draped Bust Large Cent (Large Fraction) S-275 Obverse Die Clash

Description

Cataloged under the Sheldon (S-275) die variety system — established by Dr. William H. Sheldon in "Penny Whimsy" as the definitive reference for early US large cents — this 1807 Draped Bust large cent of the Large Fraction variety displays a die clash on the obverse. A die clash occurs when obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a planchet, transferring incuse impressions of each die's design onto the opposing die surface. On this specimen, elements of the reverse wreath transferred onto the obverse and are visible between Liberty's chin and bust. The 1807 Draped Bust large cent, struck in pure copper, was the final year of this design before the Classic Head replaced it in 1808. The Large Fraction designation for S-275 refers to the size of "1/100" on the reverse, distinguishing it from Small Fraction varieties also produced this year. Die clashes on early large cents are not uncommon given the hand-powered screw presses of the era. Sheldon numbers remain the universal reference for large cent die pairs, and S-275 specimens with documented clash features attract interest from both early American copper specialists and error variety enthusiasts.

Attribution History

• Discovered by NumisDexDealer
• S-275