Expert: Jim Lawniczak - 2/27/2010

Question
Hi, I have a US 1838 penny.  Bronze in color.  Smooth around the outside edges. Lady Liberty on one side with 13 stars.  Can see LIBERTY very clearly.  On other side is ONE CENT with line under  the "cent"  and some sort of braiding around it and around the outside is UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.  How much is it worth? Should I hold onto it?
Thank you.

Answer
Kathy, value of coins depends greatly on condition.  In addition, there are several varieties (based on different dies) of the 1838 cent.  If you have an unusual variety it could be worth much more, but only an expert in large cents could tell.  In general the price for a common variety in decent very circulated condition is around $20 or so, higher if in better condition.  Try going to www.ebay.com and doing a search for 1838 large cent and you should see a few for sale, can look at the pictures to compare to yours, and she what prices are being asked and bid.

As to whether to keep it, that's wholly up to you, Jim