Large Cents - One of the first
Mint issues ever!
  Large Cents were produced from 1793 to 1857 with only one break in 1815. The US Mint had a lot of difficulty in the early days with this denomination. Due to widespread public criticism, the early Flowing Hair types were discontinued early. The chain reverse type was misunderstood as promoting slavery
  instead of strength and unity. In 1793 the United States minted three different designs in there attempt to find one that would be accepted by the general public.
These large bulky copper coins are approximately the size of a modern day half
  dollar. They were made of pure copper and changed size and weight in 1795 along with the half cent. Throughout the 64 year history they continuously had exactly twice the copper of a half cent.
By the mid 1840's these large copper coins
  were becoming more and more unpopular. Also, many banks and merchants were refusing them as payment for goods and services. In the early days the coins were
not legal tender but strangely enough they are now. The Mint was feeling the increased expense of producing them and ceased there
  production in 1857 along with the half cent.
This denomination has seven major design changes and a myriad of mint errors including over-dates and mint engraver errors. The design changes include.
 
Flowing Hair - Chain Cents (1793 only)
Flowing Hair - Wreath Cents (1793 only)
Liberty Cap Type (1793-1796)
Draped Bust Type (1796-1807)
Classic Head Type (1808-1814)
Coronet Type - Matron (1816-1835)
  Coronet Type - Braided Hair (1835-1857)
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