1803 Draped Bust Cent. S-253. Rarity-2. Small Date, Small Fraction. AU Details--Altered Surfaces (PCGS).There is plenty of sharp striking detail on both sides of this rather appealing early large cent. The obverse, in fact, is near-fully defined throughout with a uniformly denticulated border and crisp delineation to Libertys hair strands and the drapery folds. The reverse is also nicely centered on the planchet, the detail bold to sharp in all areas save for over the lower right portion of the wreath. A couple of tiny marks in the lower left obverse field and a few well scattered toning spots on both sides are the only mentionable blemishes. Hard and tight surfaces are quite smooth overall, although we do note a curiously glossy texture that helps to explain the PCGS qualifier. Golden-brown toning. Breen Die State Condition Census for this relatively plentiful die marriage provided in the Breen large cent encyclopedia (2000) is populated with coins with EAC grades of MS-61 to EF-45. The present example has enough detail to qualify, but the surface preservation keeps it just beyond reach of CC. Still an above average S-253, and sure to find many willing buyers among advanced large cent enthusiasts.Acquired from American Heritage Mint at the February 2001 Long Beach Expo. Collector envelope with attribution and provenance notes included.
