Chronology of the United States Cent
The United States Cent is one of the most collected coins of all the offerings of the US Mint. While there are 8 basic varieties (with many different variations), the series can be broken down into two categories: large cents and small cents. The first cent coin minted in the United States was the Flowing Hair Cent, minted in 1793. This was the first of five large cent coins. Next came the Liberty Cap Cent, minted from 1793 to 1796. This was followed by the Draped Bust Cent (1796-1807); then the Classic Head Cent (1808-1814); next was the Liberty Head Cent (1816-1857). When we move into the Small Cent Variety, there were three minted – the Flying Eagle Cent (1856-1858); the Indian Head Cent(1859-1909); and the Current Lincoln Cent (1909-Present)in all its variations including “the King,” the VDB-S Wheat Back Cent. It is fitting that we begin our special reports with the last one.
Large Cents
Flowing Hair Cent (1793);
Liberty Cap Cent (1793-1796);
Draped Bust Cent (1796-1807);
Classic Head Cent (1808-1814);
Liberty Head Cent (1816-1857);
Small Cents
Flying Eagle Cent (1856-1858);
Indian Head Cent (1859-1909);