1809/6 Classic Head Half Cent

C-5 9 over inverted 9 variety

John Reich’s Classic Head design debuted on the half cent in 1809, bringing a softer, neoclassical aesthetic to the nation's smallest denomination. This first year of the design is highly sought after by specialists, particularly for its intriguing die varieties.

This specimen represents the Cohen-5 variety, featuring the distinctive 9 over inverted 9 blunder in the date. Finding early copper from this era with this level of detail is a challenge, as most pieces circulated heavily in daily commerce. At the XF40 grade level, the coin retains crisp design elements, certified by PCGS and verified by CAC.

For the collector of early American copper, this piece offers a satisfying blend of historical significance and verified quality. It is an honest, character-rich representative of a classic first-year issue.