Year: 1829
Type: Liberty (Matron) Head Large Cent
Variety: Small Letters (N-3)
Grade: RAW
Mintage: 1,414,500

The 1829 large cent has the distinction of being the first Matron Head to show a new
"small letters" reverse so named for the type size used on the reverse die. This
new smaller lettering is present on some varieties of the next three years, becoming
the primary design in 1833, but not entirely put to bed until two years later in 1835.

The present example, N-3, is a relatively scarce R3+ variety, rather tough to find in
grades above Fine because of the flat striking present on virtually every example. It
can be identified by the distinctive obverse die crack going through the first three
stars, and the reverse crumbling inside the upper part of all three "A"s.

As is seen in the above example, the pesence of luster in the hidden areas seems to
fly in the face of the apparent level of wear. This paradox makes grading difficult
and subject to great debate and the present example is no different. A nice tan color
is seen on both sides. The obverse has a planchet flaw to the left of Liberty's nose/
forehead and between stars 4 and 5. The reverse has areas of dark toning/verdigris
that present a slightly mottled look.

This coin was purchased from Tom Reynolds who graded it 20/20+.