The Survival Estimate represents an average of one or more experts' opinions as to how many examples survive of a particular coin in three categories: 1) all grades, 2) 60 or better, and 3) 65 or better. These estimates are based on a variety of sources, including population reports, auction appearances, and personal knowledge. Survival estimates include coins that are raw, certified by PCGS, and certified by other grading services.
Numismatic Rarity
Numismatic Rarity converts the Survival Estimate for a particular coin into a number from 1 to 10 (with decimal increments) based on the PCGS Rarity Scale. The higher the number, the more rare the coin.
Relative Rarity By Type
Relative Rarity By Type ranks the rarity of this coin with all other coins of this Type. Lower numbers indicate rarer coins.
Relative Rarity By Series
Relative Rarity By Series ranks the rarity of this coin with all other coins of this Series. Lower numbers indicate rarer coins.
Gordon Wrubel:
Even when looking at the great photos above, the differences between the 1812 Small Date and Large Date cents may not be readily apparent. Yes the numerals in the Small Date are of a smaller size than the Large Date. But when you are looking at a lone, unattributed 1812 cent with no photos or comparison pieces at hand, there is a simple way to tell which one you have. Just look at the 8 in the date. The 8 punch used on the Small Date variety has an opening in the bottom loop that is about twice the size of the opening in the top loop. On the Large Date variety, the 8 punch used has large openings that are about the same size.
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