Small script-style 18 over Large block-style 18 in date. Newcomb-2, High R-6 as a Proof with probably fewer than 20 known.

All Proof Large Cents from this era are very rare and the 1840 is no exception. Unlike some of the other dates from the 1840′s, this issue is seldom seen with original color and surfaces.

The obverse shows attractive medium brown color with pale blue-green undertones and a splash of faded mint red at the center; the reverse is superb with faded red and brown accentuated by a crescent of bluish-green from 9:00 to 2:00. The surfaces are reflective and free of hairlines. There are a few minor spots on the obverse while the reverse is Gem quality.

The last Proof 1840 Large Cent to sell at auction was a PCGS PR65 Brown which brought $18,213 in Heritage’s 1/13 offering. In my opinion, that coin was not especially choice for the grade and the present example has far better eye appeal.

If you are the sort of collector who appreciates truly rare and truly undervalued coins, this Proof Large Cent is for you. In fact, coins like this could double in price and still be good value!

CAC has approved two 1840 Proof Cents: this example and one in PR64 RB.

Ex Anderson Dupont, Stack’s 9/54: 808, “TAD” collection, Stack’s 2/76: 137, Auction ’89: 1008, Denis Loring, R.S. Brown 4/99.