1802 Large Cent Error

Here's some other pics.... I guess I don't know how to add to the pics, the service won't let me select a new pic.

It also won't let me use anything for hosting but Photobucket. I guess I'll find a new Forum.

Sorry, I kind of liked this place.

I can't even reply to posters! This Forum is Ridiculous! I thought I was joining a serious Collector's Forum!

Hmmm he sounds familiar lol.

I don't see an error either, and I have no problems posting photos after learning the ropes and using the "Preview" option to check my work. Otherwise, I'm staying out of this one!

Might the OP's coin be an S-239, the so-called elephant trunk variety? I know that many copper collectors oppose the "cute names" that have been attached to certain varieties, but I say, "If the schnoz fits, wear it." Here's mine:





P.S. - Welcome to the CCF, MikePellerin. I humbly suggest patience on your part. This is a great place for coin collectors!

I believe it's an R-3. Vermontensium.

MikePellerin .... Apology noted and hope you'll stick around; become a contributor. We all miss a beat, now and then.

It appears to me that my coin is a later die state; this, as my so-called "elephant trunk" is more prominent, despite having more wear than the subject piece. There are collectors who specialize in die states and will typically place more market value on pieces they covet. That said, the demand for this variety seems modest to me, despite the prominent die break. Personally, I've always liked anomalies in coins and tokens, illustrating aspects that are puzzling and challenge one's thoughts.

IMHO, the 1807 so-called "comet" cent is a sister piece to this one. The names add to the mystique, I think, but some collectors shun these labels. Both the elephant and comet varieties presently exist in sufficient numbers so as to make them collectible. Yet, there currently doesn't appear to be strong enough demand that they rate a healthy premium, price-wise, in the market. That said, I'd guess that these have good potential to be more competitively sought by collectors as knowledge of their existence spreads.

Given that the subject piece is an earlier die state of this error, many collectors would understandably assume that it is the result of PMD. It's only due to my familiarity with this error, this sub-variety, if you will, that I was able to recognize it for what it is. From a coppers' collector standpoint, I believe that it would make an interesting display to see a die progression of this variety. Perhaps, there are a few collectors out there who are looking to assemble such a set, and they would pay a premium for pieces that fit their scheme. To most collectors though, there's but a modest premium apparent. Many a coin or token simply awaits a more appreciative owner, it seems.