The fact that the lettering and certain other design features were punched into the die by hand created several interesting varieties within the Draped Bust Large Cent series. One of the most famous is the so-called “3 errors” variety of 1801.
All of the “errors” are found on the reverse of the coin, including the fraction shown as 1/000, only one stem at the bottom of the wreath instead of two, and the word UNITED appearing as IINITED.
This interesting variety is very much in demand with collectors, but an example can still be acquired reasonably in lower grades. The premium expands for higher grade examples. Other mistakes are also known for the 1801 Draped Bust Cent (Buy on eBay), including the fraction 1/000 without the other errors and an attempt to correct the fraction resulting in the “1/100 over 1/000” variety.
Coin Specifications
- Designer: Robert Scot
- Composition: 100% Copper
- Weight: 10.89 grams
- Diameter: 29 mm
- Edge: Plain
