RCD-1c-1803-01R Retained Cud

Description

Struck from the Large Date, Large Fraction die marriage of the 1803 Draped Bust Cent, this retained cud on the reverse documents another failure within the die pairings used at the Philadelphia Mint that year. The Large Date, Large Fraction combination features prominently sized numerals alongside a large 1/100 fraction on the reverse, placing it among the more commonly encountered marriages for the 1803 cent. The classification system for early large cents relies on date and fraction size distinctions, alongside die characteristics such as cracks and cuds, to catalog unique products of hand-engraved dies. A retained cud occurs when a die fragment fractures but remains held in position, producing coins bearing both the original design and the displaced fragment. Each subsequent strike further deforms the retained piece, meaning coins from different points in the die's life may show varying degrees of disruption. The 1803 Draped Bust Cent belongs to one of the most studied series in American numismatics, where specialists have documented dozens of die marriages.

Attribution History

• Cross reference: RCD-1c-1803-01R.

External References