1840 Braided Hair Cent
Newcomb-2 is the only known die marriage for the Proof 1840 Braided Hair cent. It is also known in circulation strike format, and is a popular variety with specialists due to the bold repunching on the digits 18 in the date. All known Proofs and the earliest circulation strikes show this repunching to greatest effect. In circulation strike format the 1840 N-2 is a relatively plentiful variety (Rarity-2), with worn survivors easily obtainable. In Proof, however, it is an important rarity with perhaps only 10 to 12 specimens known in all grades. There are no full Red examples certified at either of the major grading services.
The example to the left was sold by Stack's Bowers Galleries in the July 2015 Baltimore Auction, where it realized $11,750.