First American Penny (U.S. Large Cent)
 
- Unfortunately, we are unable to provide assurances regarding specific dates for coins, and we regret to inform you that we cannot accommodate requests in this regard. Coins will have wear and non visible writing in some cases. We cannot gurantee you will receive the coin photographed. 
 
The first American penny was the U.S large cent, which was introduced in 1793. These coins were made of copper and were about the size of a half-dollar. The obverse featured a portrait of Lady Liberty, while the reverse showed a wreath and the words "One Cent" in the center. The coins were produced at the United States Mint in Philadelphia and were initially intended to replace the British halfpenny and farthing, which were still in circulation in the early years of the United States.
 
The U.S large cent went through several design changes over the years. In 1795, the portrait of Lady Liberty was replaced with a design known as the "Draped Bust." In 1808, a new design featuring a "Classic Head" was introduced. Finally, in 1816, the U.S large cent was redesigned with a "Matron Head," which remained in use until the coin was discontinued in 1857.
 
One interesting feature of the U.S large cent is that it was made of pure copper. This made the coins very valuable in the early years of the United States, as copper was a precious metal at the time. However, as the price of copper declined in the early 19th century, the value of the U.S large cent declined as well. By the time the coin was discontinued in 1857, it was worth only about one-tenth of its original value. Despite its short lifespan, the U.S large cent remains a popular collectible among coin collectors today.