1829 1C N-6 Bronzed (Proof)

P. Scott Rubin: The Bronzed Proof 1829 Large Cents are some of the most unusual coins ever issued. With an estimated survival number of just over a dozen or so specimens, this N-6 sub-variety is both a beautiful and desired collectable. Why this coin was struck using bronzing powder applied to the planchet’s surface before striking is not known. The more common use of this powder at the mint was for medals produced in the U.S. mint during the 19th century.

The finished product from this process is a coin with a more matte-like finish than the mirror finish normally applied to Proof coins. This gives these Bronzed Proof coins a very distinctive look. With their well-struck appearance and the matte-type finish they stand out as a very special issue of the U.S. Mint.

This issue should belong in a type set of Large Cents since it is so distinctive in appearance and because it is part of an obvious experiment by the mint to create an interesting collector coin.

The N-6 dies were also used regular Proof coins, of which fewer specimens are known than of the Bronzed Proofs.