Modified Matron Head Coronet Head Cents 1835-1839

About This Series

Representing a transitional phase in large cent evolution, the Modified Matron Head of 1835-1839 features a portrait subtly distinct from both the preceding Matron Head (1816-1835) and succeeding Braided Hair (1839-1857). Christian Gobrecht refined the Liberty portrait: the head is smaller and more delicately modeled, the hair more neatly arranged, showing greater sophistication than earlier engravings. Struck in pure copper at approximately 10.89 grams and 28.5 mm, these cents were produced at Philadelphia in substantial quantities, with annual mintages from approximately 2 million to 6 million. The Newcomb reference catalog provides the standard die variety numbering, and specialists actively study numerous obverse and reverse combinations from this short span. The 1835-1839 period saw considerable portrait experimentation year to year, making classification of intermediate varieties an ongoing scholarly discussion. The series bridges two recognizable large cent types, documenting the incremental artistic refinement that characterized design evolution during the second quarter of the 19th century.

Series Information