1812 1C Large Date, BN XF40BN 认证号34675563, PCGS号1564

Sheldon 288. Large Date. Purchased from West Cost Coins at the 2024 FUN show.

Gordon Wrubel

Even when looking at the great photos above, the differences between the 1812 Large Date and Small Date cents may not be readily apparent. Yes, the numerals in the Large Date are larger than the numerals in the Small Date. But when you are looking at a lone, unattributed 1812 cent with no photos or comparison pieces at hand, there is a simple way to tell which one you have. Just look at the 8 in the date. The 8 punch used on the Small Date variety has an opening in the bottom loop that is about twice the size of the opening in the top loop. On the Large Date variety, the 8 punch used has large large openings that are about the same size.