This beautiful premium Gem features nearly complete mint-orange luster on the obverse with only the lightest steel-blue iridescence over the high points. The reverse, on the other hand, is boldly toned in handsome glossy brown and steel blue. Faded rose-red luster is still evident on the latter side. Both sides are boldly defined with a smooth, satiny texture that provides exceptional eye appeal. This important rarity is ranked #1 in the Noyes Condition Census for the 1839 N-11 dies with an EAC grade of MS-66. Del Bland assigns a grade of MS-65+ and also ranks this piece as CC#1, while the McCawley-Grellman grade is MS-66.The popular Booby Head Guide Book variety of the 1839 cent is identifiable by looking at Libertys shoulder on the obverse, which is exposed. The reverse dies combined with the various Booby Head obverses also omit the line under the word CENT in the denomination. Several die marriages of the Booby Head variety are known, major design changes being especially prolific for the 1839 large cents. Indeed, the years from 1835 through 1839 saw considerable experimentation and modification of the basic Matron Head design type before the Mint finally settled on the Braided Hair motif that would continue in use through the end of the large cent series in 1857. Such a proliferation of types has fascinated and challenged early copper enthusiasts for decades, providing ample collecting opportunities. Indeed, the term Booby Head dates back to the mid 19th century, probably as early as 1859/1860, although not standardized until June of 1868 by Ebenezer Locke Mason, Jr. in his Coin and Stamp Collectors Magazine. As the finest known example of the 1839 N-11 dies, and one of the highest graded Booby Head cents of any die marriage known to PCGS, this important coin would serve as a highlight in the finest type set or specialized early copper collection.
