Large Cent Melt Value
The original US cent, near the size of a modern half dollar. Every date carries collector value well above its copper content.
Melt value per coin$0.160.35013 oz × $0.45/oz copper · spot as of August 4, 2026 · about 15.9× face value
copper content
0.35013 troy oz
Weight
10.89 g
Composition
Pure copper
Years
1793–1857
Melt value by quantity
| Quantity | Melt value |
|---|---|
| 1 coin | $0.16 |
| 5 coins | $0.79 |
| 10 coins | $1.59 |
| $1 face value (100 coins) | $15.87 |
Frequently asked questions
- How much copper is in a large cent?
- Each large cent weighs 10.89 grams (Pure copper) and contains 0.35013 troy ounces of copper.
- What is a large cent worth in melt value today?
- At the current copper spot price of $0.45 per troy ounce, the melt value is about $0.16 per coin.
- Is a large cent worth more than its melt value?
- Often, yes. Melt value is the floor — scarce dates, mint marks, and higher grades carry collector premiums above metal content. Check the grade-by-grade price guide before selling any coin as bullion.
Keep digging
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Melt values update with live spot prices and are estimates, not offers to buy. Dealers pay below melt to cover refining margins; collectible examples are worth more than melt. It is currently illegal to melt US one-cent and five-cent coins.