Proof "petite head" cents are simply RARE. As alluded to, the die marriage used to produce N-1 struck only proof coins, though the same reverse die would later be used to produce proof and commercial 1842 N-1 strikings. Walter Breen thought about a couple dozen proof 1841 large cents were struck, but today, about fifty are believed known in a variety of grades -- an almost incomprehensibly small number by the standard of today's mintage quantities.

This is an extremely attractive survivor that attests to the engraver's manual craft and the mint's capabilities for producing extraordinary works of art. Substantial brown patina is unable to fully obscure the radiant, warm fiery-red color that blossoms from below the surface. Though the reflectivity of the fields is attenuated somewhat by the marvelous patina, the luster simply glows . Of note are a couple of vague marks on Liberty's chin and throat, and perhaps three more nearly imperceptible abrasions between the sixth and eight stars. Also noted is a crumb of green verdigris situated next to the fourth star. The reverse is essentially flawless save a smallish grey stain trailing STATES. EAC 62.