1808 Classic Head Cent. S-279. Rarity-1. MS-64 BN (PCGS).Gorgeous satin surfaces are hard, tight, and overall smooth in hand. The reverse is nicely centered, even if devoid of denticulation from 3 to 6 oclock, while the obverse is marginally off center to 1 oclock, the border flush to stars 8 and 9. Rich antique copper patina blankets the obverse, the reverse exhibiting vivid cobalt blue and antique gold highlights. Boldly defined overall, a single reverse spot at the letter A in STATES is mentioned as a useful identifier. Noyes Die State B/B.This example represents the first year of the Classic Head series from dies made by John Reich, an accomplished German immigrant who did outstanding work in his era, most notably on various historical medals. His Capped Bust design initiated in 1807 on the half dollar is well known, as is the Classic Head motif inaugurated this year on the cent and in 1809 on the half cent. The Classic Head cents present a challenge in terms of surface quality. Porosity and dullness are the rule, this extending through the end of the series in 1814. Supplies of copper became a problem, especially after the War of 1812 cut off shipments from England. The offered 1808 cent is ideal as an example of the variety and, probably even more likely in terms of bidding activity, as the first year of the design type. It is ranked within the top six examples on the census given in Noyes 2015 reference United States Large Cents: 1802-1814.PCGS Population (all die marriages of the issue): 10; 6 finer in this category (MS-66 BN finest).Ex S.H. and H. Chapmans sale of the Richard Boswell Winsor Collection, December 1895, lot 889; New Netherlands Sale #41, 1953, lot 305; Sothebys sale of the Gene Reale Collection, January 1998, lot 45.
