Colonial Coins
Massachusetts Silver Coins 1652-1662
The Massachusetts silver coins of 1652-1662 were the first coins struck in what would later become the United States, issued under the authority of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. These coins hold a special place in American numismatic history as they represented a bold assertion of colonial autonomy and self-sufficiency, especially as the British Crown had not officially sanctioned their production.
Historical Context
In the mid-17th century, the Massachusetts Bay Colony was thriving but faced a chronic shortage of hard currency. Silver was being drained out of the colonies, primarily due to trade deficits with England. To address this, the colonial government decided to mint its own silver coins starting in 1652, defying the traditional English laws that only the Crown could issue coinage. Despite their semi-clandestine nature, these coins were crucial to the economy of New England.
To avoid trouble with the British authorities, the date 1652 was used on all the coins, regardless of the year of their actual production. This allowed the colony to argue that the coins were a relic of an earlier time (during the English Civil War) when royal authority was in flux, even though the coins were produced for over a decade.
The Designer and Minting Process
The coins were struck at the Boston Mint, established by the colony's General Court. John Hull, a Boston silversmith, and his partner Robert Sanderson were appointed to oversee the minting process. Hull was the primary designer, and his mint produced a variety of coins in different denominations. The coins were made from silver, much of which was acquired through trade with the Spanish colonies.
Denominations and Designs
Several different denominations were issued, all featuring simple yet distinctive designs. The major varieties include:
1. NE (New England) Coins (1652)
Denominations: Shillings, Sixpence, and Threepence.
Design: The obverse of these coins had the simple letters “NE” (for New England), while the reverse displayed the denomination in Roman numerals (X for shilling, VI for sixpence, and III for threepence).
Significance: The NE coinage was the earliest form of the Massachusetts silver coins and was quickly abandoned in favor of more intricate designs due to the simplicity of the design making it too easy to clip the silver edges.
2. Willow Tree Coinage (1653-1660)
Denominations: Shillings, Sixpence, Threepence.
Design: These coins featured a Willow Tree on the obverse, with the inscription “MASATHVSETS” and the date 1652. The reverse showed the denomination in Roman numerals, encircled by “NEW ENGLAND”.
Significance: This design was an attempt to create a more sophisticated and harder-to-counterfeit coin. The willow tree motif is somewhat crude and abstract in design, and only a few examples of the Willow Tree series survive today, making them rare and valuable.
3. Oak Tree Coinage (1660-1667)
Denominations: Shillings, Sixpence, Threepence, and Two Pence.
Design: The Oak Tree design replaced the Willow Tree. The obverse featured a more detailed and recognizable oak tree with the “MASATHVSETS” legend and the date 1652. The reverse continued the same inscription “NEW ENGLAND” and denomination in Roman numerals.
Significance: The Oak Tree coinage is the most common and best-known of the Massachusetts silver coins. The craftsmanship improved with the Oak Tree design, and it became the predominant series struck until the mint’s closure.
4. Pine Tree Coinage (1667-1682)
Denominations: Shillings, Sixpence, Threepence, and Two Pence.
Design: The most famous and iconic of the Massachusetts coinage is the Pine Tree design. It features a well-defined Pine Tree on the obverse with the inscription “MASATHVSETS IN” and the date 1652. The reverse contains the denomination in Roman numerals encircled by “NEW ENGLAND AN DOM”.
Significance: The Pine Tree coins are the most recognizable and widely collected of the Massachusetts coinage series. They are seen as a symbol of New England's colonial independence and are highly prized by numismatists.
Minting Practices and Errors
Hand-struck: These coins were struck by hand, and as such, they often show variations in strike quality. Many coins have irregular shapes, uneven designs, and weakly struck areas.
Overstrikes: Due to the need to conserve silver, older coins (including earlier Willow Tree and Oak Tree coins) were sometimes overstruck with new designs. This resulted in interesting varieties for collectors, where traces of the earlier design can still be seen beneath the newer strike.
Clipping: Clipping was a common problem with early silver coins. Because the coins' edges were irregular, it was easy for people to shave off small amounts of silver before passing them on. This led to a wide variance in weight among surviving examples.
Varieties and Key Rarities
1652 Willow Tree Shilling: One of the rarest and most highly sought-after varieties in early American numismatics.
1652 Oak Tree Shilling: A more common issue, though certain die varieties and overstrikes command significant premiums.
1652 Pine Tree Shilling: Perhaps the most famous of all early colonial coins, especially the large planchet varieties, which are rare and valuable.
Mintmarks and Die Varieties: Different dies used for striking these coins can create subtle variations, often referred to as die varieties, which are of particular interest to advanced collectors. Specific die pairs can result in major differences in the rarity and value of individual coins.
Historic Importance
The Massachusetts silver coinage holds immense significance as the first American coinage. These coins were produced during a period of relative autonomy for the Massachusetts Bay Colony, which allowed it to mint its own currency without interference from the English Crown. Despite being unauthorized by the British government, the coins circulated widely in the New England region and were accepted in trade throughout the colonies.
The fact that all the coins are dated 1652, even though production continued for years after, is a fascinating historical quirk. This practice was likely done to avoid provoking British authorities, as 1652 was during the time of the English Civil War and the Commonwealth under Oliver Cromwell, when royal authority was in flux.
Pre-1776 States Coinage 1652-1774
Pre-1776 state coinage refers to the various coins and tokens produced by individual American colonies before the United States declared independence. Between 1652 and 1774, the colonies were largely dependent on foreign coins, but a few produced their own coinage, primarily out of necessity due to shortages of hard currency. These colonial coins are historically significant, as they reflect the colonies’ economic struggles, their aspirations for self-reliance, and their often tenuous relationship with British authority.
Major Pre-1776 Colonial Coinage
1. Massachusetts Silver Coinage (1652-1682)
Denominations: Shilling, Sixpence, Threepence, Twopence.
Designer: John Hull and Robert Sanderson.
Coinage History: Massachusetts was the first colony to mint its own coins, starting in 1652. The mint was established in response to the severe shortage of currency in the colony. To avoid prosecution by the British authorities, all coins bore the date 1652, the year the English Civil War ended, allowing the colony to argue that they were struck during a period of weakened royal authority.
Designs:
NE Coinage: Featuring just the letters “NE” (for New England) on the obverse and Roman numerals indicating the denomination on the reverse.
Willow Tree, Oak Tree, and Pine Tree Coinage: More intricate designs with trees representing Massachusetts' natural bounty.
Key Varieties: NE Coinage is rare due to clipping, making full-weight specimens highly valuable. The Pine Tree Shilling is the most recognized of this series.
2. Virginia “Hogge” Money (1616)
Denominations: Sixpence, Threepence.
Designer: Unknown.
Coinage History: Virginia's "Hogge" Money is considered the first coinage produced in the American colonies. It was struck by the Virginia Company in Bermuda for use in the Jamestown settlement in 1616. The name "Hogge" comes from the coin's design, which featured a wild boar on the obverse.
Design:
Obverse: A wild boar (hog) facing left.
Reverse: A sailing ship, symbolizing the maritime connection between the colonies and England.
Key Varieties: Very few examples survive today, making them extremely rare and highly valuable.
3. New Jersey "Mark Newby" Halfpence (1681-1682)
Denominations: Halfpenny.
Designer: Issued by Mark Newby, an Irish Quaker.
Coinage History: Newby arrived in New Jersey in 1681, bringing with him a stock of "St. Patrick's Coppers," which had been struck in Dublin, Ireland, around 1663-1672. Newby received permission from the provincial government to use these coppers as legal tender.
Design:
Obverse: Depicts King David playing a harp.
Reverse: A bishop holding a crozier with the inscription "Quiescat Plebs" (Let the People Be Quiet).
Key Varieties: Mark Newby’s coppers are rare, and examples vary in condition, making well-preserved specimens highly desirable among collectors.
4. New York Coinage - St. Patrick’s Coppers (1660s-1670s)
Denominations: Halfpence.
Designer: Irish origin, exact engraver unknown.
Coinage History: These coppers were imported and used in New York, initially produced in Ireland in the 1660s. These coins saw use in the colony due to the lack of official coinage.
Design: Same as the New Jersey coinage mentioned above.
Key Varieties: The Irish provenance of these coins makes them quite distinct from other colonial issues.
5. New Yorke in America Token (1670s)
Denominations: Token (not an official denomination).
Designer: Unknown.
Coinage History: This token, produced for circulation in New York, is an enigmatic issue and was likely struck for merchants. It is rare, and its precise use remains a subject of debate among numismatists.
Design:
Obverse: A seated figure of a monarch holding a scepter, encircled by the inscription “NEW YORKE IN AMERICA”.
Reverse: The letters “DVI” (initials whose meaning is uncertain), within a wreath.
Key Varieties: Known primarily in copper, but a few silver examples exist.
6. New England Higley Coppers (1737-1739)
Denominations: Threepence.
Designer: Samuel Higley, a blacksmith and doctor in Connecticut.
Coinage History: Higley’s coppers are among the most famous pre-1776 colonial coins, privately issued in Connecticut starting in 1737. Higley, a man of varied talents, struck these coppers from locally sourced copper mined on his own property. Initially, the coins were valued at threepence, though they contained copper worth less than the stated value.
Design:
Obverse: A deer with the inscription "THE VALUE OF THREE PENCE".
Reverse: A hammer and three crowns, with the inscription "CONNECTICUT" or "I AM GOOD COPPER".
Key Varieties: There are several die varieties with different legends, making Higley coppers especially interesting for collectors. Due to the hand-struck nature and the small number produced, all examples are rare.
7. Maryland Lord Baltimore Coinage (1659)
Denominations: Shilling, Sixpence, Groat (Fourpence), Penny.
Designer: Cecil Calvert, 2nd Lord Baltimore.
Coinage History: Issued under the authority of Lord Baltimore, the proprietary governor of Maryland, these coins were the first coins produced for an American colony bearing the image of an English noble. They were struck in England and intended to provide a local circulating medium.
Design:
Obverse: Bust of Lord Baltimore facing right, with his titles inscribed around the bust.
Reverse: A crowned coat of arms representing Lord Baltimore’s family, surrounded by “CRESCITE ET MULTIPLICAMINI” (Increase and Multiply).
Key Varieties: The smaller denominations, particularly the penny, are rare. These coins are highly sought after due to their detailed designs and historical importance.
8. Continental Currency Coin (1776)
Denominations: Dollar.
Designer: Likely designed by Benjamin Franklin.
Coinage History: While not technically pre-1776 (issued during the year), these coins were struck as a substitute for paper Continental Currency notes. They are considered to be some of the first coins produced for the fledgling United States, even though they were issued by the Continental Congress during the Revolutionary War.
Design:
Obverse: A sun shining down on a sundial, with the legend "FUGIO" (I Fly) and "MIND YOUR BUSINESS" below, symbolizing time flying and the need for diligence.
Reverse: Interlocked chains representing the thirteen colonies, with the inscription "WE ARE ONE".
Key Varieties: Varieties exist with different engravings, some more crude than others. Some examples were struck in brass, making them extremely rare.
Key Historical Facts
Necessity of Coinage: Colonial coins were primarily issued due to the shortage of hard currency in the colonies. British law restricted the export of silver and gold to the colonies, forcing them to rely on foreign coins or create their own.
Colonial Autonomy: Coin production by the colonies, especially Massachusetts, was seen as an assertion of self-reliance. Although technically illegal under British law, the lack of enforcement by the Crown allowed the colonies to continue minting coins until well into the 18th century.
Foreign Coinage: The majority of coins circulating in the colonies were of foreign origin. Spanish milled dollars and Portuguese coins were especially common, as they were widely accepted due to their high silver content.
Transition to Paper Money: In many colonies, paper money began to circulate alongside coinage by the mid-18th century. The need for coins remained, but paper currency became increasingly important.
French Colonies 1670-1767
The French colonial coinage between 1670 and 1767 reflects the economic and geopolitical ambitions of France during its period of expansion across North America, the Caribbean, and other colonial holdings. These coins were created primarily to facilitate trade and circulation of money in distant colonies, where currency shortages were a recurring problem. French colonial coins of this era are of great interest to numismatists due to their historical significance, variety of designs, and the difficulties encountered in their issuance and circulation.
Historical Context
France began colonizing parts of North America and the Caribbean in the early 17th century. By the mid-1600s, the French had established colonies in places like Canada, Louisiana, the West Indies (such as Martinique and Guadeloupe), and parts of India. Due to the scarcity of coinage, these colonies often relied on a mixture of French and foreign coins, particularly Spanish reales, which were commonly used in the New World.
In response to the lack of official currency, the French government authorized the minting of special coins and tokens for colonial use. These coins were designed to meet the needs of the colonies while also ensuring control over the monetary system from the metropole (France). The French colonial coinage includes both officially minted coins by the French government and emergency issues produced locally or under private authority.
Major Varieties of French Colonial Coins (1670–1767)
1. Louis XIV "Colony of Canada" Coinage (1670)
Denominations: 15 deniers (often referred to as "colonies coinage").
Designer: The coinage bore the portrait of Louis XIV, the Sun King, and was minted under royal authority.
Coinage History: This was one of the earliest issues specifically minted for the colonies, struck at the La Rochelle mint in 1670. These coins were meant for circulation in New France (Canada), but they were never widely distributed and many were melted down.
Design:
Obverse: Bust of Louis XIV with the inscription "LUD XIV REX".
Reverse: Inscription reading "COLONIES FRANCOISES", with the denomination in Roman numerals (XV deniers).
Key Varieties: There are some variations in die strikes, and surviving examples are extremely rare due to the limited circulation and high rate of melting.
2. Billons of Louis XV (1716–1720)
Denominations: Douzain, Double Tournois.
Designer: Issued under Louis XV’s reign, designed by the engravers at the Paris mint.
Coinage History: These small-denomination billon (low-grade silver) coins were issued for French colonies in the Americas, particularly Canada and the Caribbean, during a time of financial stress for France. The need for small change in the colonies led to their production.
Design:
Obverse: Profile of Louis XV.
Reverse: Royal arms of France, along with the denomination.
Key Varieties: Douzain and Double Tournois issues are distinguishable by minor differences in weight and strike quality, as the billon content was often altered due to fluctuating silver supplies.
3. Colonial Sols (1721–1764)
Denominations: 1 Sol (known as “black sols” due to their copper alloy content).
Designer: Minted under the supervision of various French mints, these were official government issues.
Coinage History: These copper sols were struck primarily for use in New France (Canada) and the West Indies, as well as Louisiana. The sols served as low-denomination currency, crucial for everyday transactions in the colonies. However, they were often debased, and their circulation value decreased over time.
Design:
Obverse: Portrait of Louis XV with the inscription "LUD XV DG FR ET NAV REX" (Louis XV, by the Grace of God, King of France and Navarre).
Reverse: French royal coat of arms with the inscription "COLONIES FRANCOISES".
Key Varieties: Varieties exist based on mint marks, small differences in portrait styles, and alloy compositions.
4. Guinea or Gold Coinage of the French West Indies (1736–1741)
Denominations: 1 Guinea.
Designer: Issued by private merchants and planters under special royal charters for the colonies in the French West Indies, particularly for Martinique and Guadeloupe.
Coinage History: These coins were struck primarily for trade and were inspired by the British guinea, serving as a medium for large-scale transactions. The coinage was not as widespread as copper sols but was important for wealthy planters and merchants.
Design:
Obverse: Royal French coat of arms with the denomination.
Reverse: The reverse design was often quite plain, featuring a simple cross or wreath.
Key Varieties: Different planters and merchants issued the coins under slightly varying designs, making them highly collectible due to their scarcity.
5. Liards for Canada and the French Colonies (1752-1764)
Denominations: 1 Liard.
Designer: These were designed and minted in France for colonial use during the reign of Louis XV.
Coinage History: Liards were small copper coins designed for use in Canada and the French Caribbean colonies. They were heavily circulated and represent some of the more common colonial issues. However, due to their low value and heavy use, many examples are in poor condition.
Design:
Obverse: Profile of Louis XV.
Reverse: Fleur-de-lis within a wreath, with the legend "COLONIES FRANCOISES".
Key Varieties: Known for differences in strike quality, as many were poorly produced due to the hurried nature of minting for colonial needs.
6. French West India Company Tokens (1720s-1730s)
Denominations: Various.
Designer: Issued by the Compagnie des Indes (French West India Company).
Coinage History: These tokens were used as emergency coinage in the French Caribbean colonies. The tokens were authorized by the West India Company, which controlled trade in the region, and were intended for use in plantation economies. Due to their unofficial nature, they were often poorly struck and quickly fell out of favor.
Design: The designs varied widely, often featuring simple emblems like the company’s logo or the initials of the issuer.
Key Varieties: The tokens come in various shapes, including round, square, and rectangular, reflecting their hasty and varied production. They are highly prized among collectors of emergency and token coinage.
7. French Coinage in Louisiana (Colonial Silver Piastres) (1721-1767)
Denominations: 1 Piastre.
Designer: Issued by French colonial administrators under royal authority, with designs based on French coins of the time.
Coinage History: French colonial Louisiana had severe coin shortages, and French piastres (similar in size and value to Spanish pesos) were struck for use in the colony. These silver coins were primarily used in large-scale commercial transactions, particularly in the booming fur trade.
Design:
Obverse: Bust of Louis XV or Louis XVI.
Reverse: The reverse featured the royal coat of arms or a simple cross.
Key Varieties: Variants exist depending on the year of issue, and certain strikes were of much higher quality than others. These coins were often melted down or lost, making surviving examples rare.
Historical and Numismatic Significance
Economic Struggles: The French colonial coins represent the economic difficulties faced by France in maintaining its colonies, as well as the broader monetary issues that plagued early New World economies.
Colonial Identity: These coins reflect the growing sense of colonial identity and self-reliance, particularly in Canada and Louisiana, as colonies developed their own distinct economies separate from France.
Crisis of Confidence: Debasement of the coinage, especially the copper sols, led to a crisis of confidence in French colonial currency. Many colonies were forced to rely on foreign coins, like Spanish reales, or on barter systems to conduct business.
Collector's Value: Due to the limited number of coins produced, especially in Canada and Louisiana, French colonial coins are highly prized by collectors. Many issues are rare, especially in higher grades, and command significant premiums at auction.
Surviving Examples: The survival rate of these coins varies widely. The gold and silver coins, being more valuable, are rarer but often better preserved. Copper coins, such as the sols and liards, were heavily circulated and frequently damaged or lost.
Post-1776 States Coinage 1776-1788
The Post-1776 State Coinage (1776-1788) period in American numismatics is a fascinating chapter, where the newly independent American states began experimenting with their own coinage. During this era, the United States had not yet adopted a unified national currency system, so individual states issued their own coins to meet local demands for small denomination money. These coins are a blend of artistic designs and practical monetary solutions for a young nation striving to establish its independence from Britain, both politically and economically.
Historical Context
After the Declaration of Independence in 1776, the new American states were eager to assert their independence, including the creation of their own monetary systems. The Articles of Confederation (ratified in 1781) provided only a loose framework for federal authority, and states retained much autonomy, including the right to mint their own money. A national currency did not yet exist, and the Continental Congress’s attempts at issuing paper money (the Continental Currency) were largely unsuccessful due to inflation and counterfeiting.
To address this monetary vacuum, several states began issuing their own coins, often in copper denominations, to meet the everyday needs of commerce. These coins reflect the states' desire for monetary independence while also addressing the shortage of circulating coinage in the post-Revolutionary period.
Major Varieties of Post-1776 State Coinage (1776–1788)
1. Connecticut Coppers (1785–1788)
Designer: The Connecticut coppers were designed by various local engravers, including Abel Buell and James Atlee.
Coinage History: Connecticut, which had a dire need for small change, issued its own copper coins starting in 1785. These coins were produced in large numbers and circulated widely, even beyond Connecticut's borders.
Design:
Obverse: Bust of a laureated figure, resembling the bust of King George II from earlier British halfpennies, but altered to represent Liberty.
Reverse: A seated figure, possibly representing Liberty, with the inscription "INDE ET LIB" (Independence and Liberty).
Varieties: Connecticut coppers are known for their extensive die varieties, with hundreds of documented varieties due to the decentralized minting process and use of multiple engravers. Different portrait styles, die breaks, and errors make Connecticut coppers a rich field for variety collectors.
2. New Jersey Coppers (1786–1788)
Designer: The New Jersey coppers were designed by Thomas Goadsby and minted under the supervision of a private contractor, Matthias Ogden.
Coinage History: New Jersey issued these coppers to remedy the lack of small change. The state legislature authorized their production in 1786, and they were minted both in New Jersey and later in New York.
Design:
Obverse: Features a horse’s head above a plow, symbolizing New Jersey’s agricultural base, with the Latin inscription "NOVA CAESAREA" (New Jersey).
Reverse: The reverse bears the image of a shield, representing unity and strength, with the legend "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (Out of many, one).
Varieties: New Jersey coppers are known for die varieties, including small differences in the size and shape of the horse's head, the plow, and shield. The "Running Fox" variety is one of the more famous die variations.
3. Vermont Coppers (1785–1788)
Designer: Issued by the Republic of Vermont (which had not yet joined the Union), these coins were designed by Reuben Harmon.
Coinage History: Vermont, then an independent republic, issued its own copper coinage to alleviate the shortage of currency. The coins circulated widely in Vermont and neighboring states.
Design:
Obverse: The legend reads "VERMONTIS. RES. PUBLICA" around a central image of a seated figure, likely representing Liberty or Britannia.
Reverse: An image of a radiant sun rising over the Green Mountains, with the Latin phrase "STELLA QUARTA DECIMA" (The Fourteenth Star), symbolizing Vermont's aspiration to join the Union.
Varieties: Vermont coppers, like other state coinages, exhibit a variety of die varieties. Notable varieties include differences in the sun rays and mountain contours. The "Baby Head" variety is one of the most famous, featuring a small, disproportionate bust on the obverse.
4. Massachusetts Coppers (1787–1788)
Designer: Designed by Joseph Callender, who was the chief engraver at the Massachusetts Mint.
Coinage History: Massachusetts was the only state to issue both copper and silver coins after the Revolutionary War. In 1787, Massachusetts began issuing its copper coinage to alleviate the shortage of small denominations.
Design:
Obverse: Depicts an Indian figure standing with a bow in hand and an arrow in the other, symbolizing the state's Native American heritage, along with the legend "COMMONWEALTH".
Reverse: An eagle with a shield on its breast and arrows in its talon, symbolizing the United States, with the denomination "1 CENT" or "HALF CENT."
Varieties: Massachusetts coppers feature some varieties, particularly in die alignments and small changes in the Indian figure and eagle designs. The silver coins, known as "Massachusetts cents," are rarer and highly collectible.
5. New York Excelsior Coppers (1787)
Designer: The designer of the Excelsior coppers is unknown, but they are attributed to Thomas Machin, a patriot and engineer during the Revolutionary War.
Coinage History: New York’s Excelsior coppers were privately minted and never officially adopted by the state, but they were intended to serve as circulating currency in New York.
Design:
Obverse: Features an eagle with outstretched wings, holding an olive branch and arrows, with the Latin legend "EXCELSIOR" (Ever Upward, the state motto of New York).
Reverse: A detailed depiction of the shield of New York with an arm and sword, symbolizing strength and readiness.
Varieties: The Excelsior coppers are rare and only exist in a few varieties, which are notable for slight differences in the eagle and shield designs. These coins are highly prized by collectors due to their rarity and connection to the early independence movement.
6. Virginia Halfpence (1773)
Designer: The designer of the Virginia halfpence remains anonymous, but they were minted in Birmingham, England.
Coinage History: Although these coins were authorized by Virginia in 1773, before the Revolution, they continued to circulate during and after the war. The coins were intended to alleviate the severe shortage of small denomination currency in the colony.
Design:
Obverse: Bust of King George III, symbolizing Virginia's colonial past under British rule.
Reverse: The Virginia coat of arms, with the legend "VIRGINIA".
Varieties: Virginia halfpence are distinguished by small differences in the king's bust and the coat of arms. These variations are of great interest to colonial collectors, as the halfpence represent the transition from British colonial rule to statehood.
7. Nova Constellatio Coins (1783)
Designer: Designed by Benjamin Dudley, an engraver employed by the Continental Congress.
Coinage History: Nova Constellatio coins were intended to be the first official coinage of the United States under the Articles of Confederation. However, they were never widely circulated, and most of the patterns are now rare.
Design:
Obverse: Features a design of thirteen linked rings representing the original states, with the legend "NOVA CONSTELLATIO" (New Constellation).
Reverse: Displays an all-seeing eye within a radiant star, symbolizing enlightenment and protection.
Varieties: The Nova Constellatio series includes several varieties of patterns, including copper and silver pieces. These are considered some of the most important coins in early American numismatics due to their connection to the early federal monetary system.
Historical and Numismatic Significance
State Sovereignty: These coins represent the sovereignty that each state maintained under the Articles of Confederation. They are a reflection of the decentralized nature of government and economics in the immediate aftermath of the American Revolution.
Symbolism: Many of the coins feature designs rich with symbolism, such as the rising sun (representing new beginnings), the eagle (symbolizing strength), and agricultural motifs (representing prosperity and self-reliance). These symbols were meant to evoke the spirit of independence and state pride.
Variety and Rarity: Many of these state coinages were produced in limited numbers and were subject to frequent die changes, making them a rich field for variety collectors. Some varieties, such as the "Running Fox" New Jersey copper and the "Baby Head" Vermont copper, are highly sought after due to their unique designs.
Cross-State Circulation: While issued by individual states, these coins often circulated beyond their state borders, especially in regions with close economic ties. For example, Connecticut and New Jersey coppers were often found in neighboring states like New York and Pennsylvania.
Federal Transition: These state issues ultimately gave way to the creation of a national currency system with the passage of the Coinage Act of 1792, which established the U.S. Mint and began the production of federal coinage.
Post-1776 Private and Regional issues 1778-1820
The Post-1776 Private and Regional Issues (1778-1820) represent an important transitional phase in American numismatics, during which the newly independent United States was struggling with the absence of a stable, federally issued coinage. During this period, private individuals, companies, and regional authorities took it upon themselves to mint coins and issue currency to facilitate trade and commerce in the absence of a fully functioning national currency system.
Historical Context
After the American Revolution, the newly formed United States faced a severe shortage of official coinage. The fledgling nation lacked the capacity to produce enough coins to meet demand, and the Continental Congress's attempt at issuing paper currency (Continental Currency) resulted in hyperinflation and loss of public confidence in government-issued money. Furthermore, foreign coins continued to circulate widely in the American colonies, but they were often hoarded or shipped abroad for trade. To address the shortage of small change and facilitate local commerce, private individuals, businesses, and regional authorities began issuing their own coins and tokens.
Major Types of Post-1776 Private and Regional Issues (1778-1820)
1. 1794 Talbot, Allum & Lee Tokens (1794-1796)
Designer: Designed by engravers associated with the Talbot, Allum & Lee trading company based in New York.
Coinage History: The firm Talbot, Allum & Lee, engaged in trade with India and China, issued these tokens as part of an advertising campaign. The tokens were intended to serve as small change and carried both the company's name and its mission.
Design:
Obverse: Features a standing figure of Liberty holding a pole and cap, a symbol of freedom, with the words "LIBERTY AND COMMERCE".
Reverse: Displays the name "TALBOT, ALLUM & LEE NEW YORK", with the denomination "ONE CENT" below.
Varieties: There are several varieties of Talbot, Allum & Lee tokens, most notably those with different reverse designs, including some that feature a ship in full sail. Some tokens were also struck for use in other countries, such as India.
2. 1783 Chalmers Annapolis Issues
Designer: John Chalmers, a silversmith from Annapolis, Maryland.
Coinage History: In 1783, John Chalmers struck silver coins to address the shortage of small silver currency in Maryland. These coins are among the earliest American private silver issues.
Design:
Obverse: Features a dove with an olive branch, symbolizing peace, with the legend "ANNA" for Annapolis.
Reverse: Depicts two clasped hands, symbolizing unity and commerce, with the denomination below.
Varieties: There are several varieties, including shilling, sixpence, and threepence denominations. These coins are rare and highly collectible, especially the shilling variety, which is the most iconic of the series.
3. 1787 Fugio Cents (1787)
Designer: The Fugio cent was designed by Benjamin Franklin.
Coinage History: The Fugio cent was the first coin authorized by the Continental Congress and is sometimes referred to as the first official coin of the United States, although it was privately struck. It was intended to provide a reliable source of small change.
Design:
Obverse: Features a sun and a sundial with the legend "FUGIO" (Latin for "I fly"), referencing time, along with the motto "MIND YOUR BUSINESS"—a Franklin-ism promoting industriousness.
Reverse: Displays thirteen linked rings representing the thirteen colonies, with the motto "WE ARE ONE".
Varieties: The Fugio cents were struck in a variety of die combinations, making them a field rich with varieties for collectors. Notable varieties include different legends on the obverse and reverse, as well as design alterations.
4. 1792 Kentucky Tokens (1791-1794)
Designer: The designer of the Kentucky Token is unknown, but it was likely commissioned by a British manufacturer for use in the U.S.
Coinage History: These copper tokens were issued to celebrate Kentucky's admission as the fifteenth state to the Union in 1792. While initially struck in England for use in America, they became popular in Kentucky and other parts of the U.S. as small change.
Design:
Obverse: Features a legend of "UNANIMITY IS THE STRENGTH OF SOCIETY" around a central design of a pyramid of fifteen stars, representing the original thirteen colonies and the newly admitted states, Vermont and Kentucky.
Reverse: Depicts an all-seeing eye surrounded by thirteen stars, symbolizing the states, with the motto "KENTUCKY".
Varieties: Kentucky tokens exist in several varieties, including those with different legends and design changes. Some varieties are distinguished by minor differences in the number of stars and eye placement.
5. 1796 Myddelton Token
Designer: Designed by British engravers, the Myddelton Token was issued by Colonel Thomas Myddelton, a British entrepreneur.
Coinage History: Myddelton, a British landowner, issued these tokens to promote a settlement project in Kentucky. Though intended as a means of encouraging British emigration to the United States, the plan failed, and the tokens never circulated widely.
Design:
Obverse: Features the bust of George Washington, with the legend "WASHINGTON PRESIDENT".
Reverse: Depicts a female figure symbolizing Liberty, holding a cap and pole, with the inscription "MYDDELTON, 1796".
Varieties: Myddelton tokens were struck in copper, silver, and gold, with different metal compositions. These tokens are very rare, especially the gold varieties.
6. 1805 North Wales Halfpenny
Designer: The designer of the North Wales Halfpenny is unknown, but it was produced by a British manufacturer.
Coinage History: This token, struck in England, was intended for circulation in the United States as part of the general shortage of small denomination currency. It was used in commerce in North Wales, Pennsylvania, as well as parts of New Jersey.
Design:
Obverse: Features the head of a bust, often assumed to be Britannia, with a date of 1805.
Reverse: Displays the image of Liberty, holding a pole with a cap.
Varieties: North Wales halfpennies were struck in various die combinations, and minor varieties can be found with different legend placements and bust types.
7. Hard Times Tokens (1833-1844)
Designer: Many of the Hard Times tokens were designed by individual engravers, including notable figures like Edward Hulseman.
Coinage History: Hard Times tokens were issued during the financial panic of the 1830s when official U.S. coinage was in short supply. These privately minted tokens served as a substitute for scarce coinage and were used in everyday transactions.
Design:
Obverse: Hard Times tokens often featured political or social commentary, with many depicting images critical of President Andrew Jackson and his policies.
Reverse: The reverse typically carried commercial advertisements for the issuing business or entity.
Varieties: There are numerous varieties of Hard Times tokens, both in design and message, ranging from political satirical pieces to advertisements for specific companies. These tokens are extensively collected due to their rich historical significance and variety.
8. Rhode Island Ship Token (1778)
Designer: Likely designed and minted in England.
Coinage History: The Rhode Island Ship Token was created as a commemorative piece, possibly celebrating the British withdrawal from Newport, Rhode Island, during the Revolutionary War.
Design:
Obverse: Features a warship in full sail, with the legend "SUCCESS TO THE AMERICANS".
Reverse: Depicts the Goddess of Liberty holding a cap on a pole, a symbol of freedom, with an anchor, the symbol of Rhode Island.
Varieties: There are several varieties of the Rhode Island Ship Token, with differences in the details of the ship and the goddess figure. These tokens are prized for their connection to Revolutionary War history.
Proposed National issues 1776-1787
The Proposed National Issues (1776-1787) represent an era when the newly independent United States sought to establish a coherent and stable currency system. During this period, various coinage proposals were introduced as part of the broader effort to stabilize the nation's economy and provide a reliable currency to replace the often problematic foreign and colonial currencies that were in circulation.
This period, spanning from the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 to the ratification of the U.S. Constitution in 1787, was marked by experiments in monetary policy, with different designs and plans for a national coinage proposed. These proposals are fascinating to numismatists, as they reflect the country's early struggles with monetary sovereignty and the desire to create a uniquely American coinage system.
Historical Context
Following the Revolutionary War, the newly formed United States faced significant challenges related to currency. The Continental Congress had issued paper money (Continental Currency) to finance the war, but overprinting led to severe inflation, and by the end of the conflict, the currency had become virtually worthless. The states themselves had been issuing their own coinage, often leading to confusion and difficulties in trade. In addition, foreign coins, such as Spanish dollars, were widely circulated and accepted, but the absence of a standardized national currency created challenges for the new nation.
In this context, several individuals and committees put forward proposals to create a national coinage system that would address these issues. While many of these proposals did not result in immediate production, they laid the foundation for the eventual creation of the United States Mint and the introduction of official U.S. coinage.
Notable Proposed National Issues (1776-1787)
1. 1776 Continental Currency Dollar Coin
Designer: Attributed to Benjamin Franklin, with the design crafted by engraver Elisha Gallaudet.
Coinage History: One of the most well-known and intriguing proposed issues of the period is the 1776 Continental Dollar. It was intended to serve as a replacement for the paper Continental Currency that had depreciated in value. These coins were struck in various metals, including pewter, silver, and brass.
Design:
Obverse: Features a central sun dial with the word "FUGIO" (Latin for "I fly"), representing time, and the motto "MIND YOUR BUSINESS", a Franklin aphorism urging industriousness.
Reverse: Depicts thirteen linked rings, each inscribed with the name of one of the original colonies, with the motto "WE ARE ONE" at the center, symbolizing unity.
Varieties: Several varieties exist, differentiated by minor design changes in the rings, the sun dial, and the inscriptions. There are also differences based on the metal used—pewter being the most common, while silver and brass varieties are rare.
Interesting Facts: While this coin is often considered a pattern rather than a circulating coin, it is a crucial piece of American numismatic history. Its design, attributed to Franklin, represents an important attempt to create a unified national currency.
2. 1783 Nova Constellatio Patterns
Designer: The design and plan for the Nova Constellatio coins were created by Robert Morris, the Superintendent of Finance under the Articles of Confederation. The actual coinage was executed by Benjamin Dudley, an English die sinker and engraver.
Coinage History: The Nova Constellatio pattern coins were part of Robert Morris's ambitious plan to create a national coinage system based on the decimal system, which was a revolutionary idea at the time. The coins were designed to be denominated in dollars, cents, tenths, and five units (quint).
Design:
Obverse: Features the inscription "NOVA CONSTELLATIO" (Latin for "New Constellation") with a design of a central eye within rays, representing the "eye of Providence," and thirteen stars surrounding it, symbolizing the thirteen colonies.
Reverse: The reverse design varied depending on the denomination, but all included the denomination and a wreath.
Varieties: Five denominations were proposed: 1000 Units (Quint), 500 Units (Pattern Half-Disme), 100 Units (Pattern Cent), 5 Units, and 1 Unit. Only patterns of these coins were struck, and they remain among the rarest and most valuable of early American coins.
Interesting Facts: The Nova Constellatio patterns were the first coins proposed for the United States under a decimalized system, a concept later adopted in U.S. coinage. Although these coins never saw mass production, their significance lies in their innovative use of decimal denominations.
3. 1785 and 1786 Immune Columbia Pattern Coins
Designer: These coins were designed by Benjamin Dudley, who also worked on the Nova Constellatio patterns.
Coinage History: The Immune Columbia patterns were part of a proposal for national coinage, though like many other pattern coins of the period, they were not officially adopted. The purpose of the Immune Columbia coins was to provide a reliable medium of exchange and address the monetary chaos in the post-Revolutionary War United States.
Design:
Obverse: Features the standing figure of Liberty, holding a shield and staff, with the inscription "IMMUNE COLUMBIA", symbolizing protection and freedom.
Reverse: Displays a wreath with the denomination in the center, and an inscription around the edge.
Varieties: The Immune Columbia patterns were struck in different metals, including copper and silver, and exist in various denominations. A notable variety is the Immunis Columbia cent.
Interesting Facts: While not adopted for mass circulation, these pattern coins reflect the experimental phase of American coinage, where different designs and denominations were considered to address the country’s monetary needs.
4. 1785 and 1786 Confederatio Coppers
Designer: Designed by Benjamin Dudley, following the Nova Constellatio concept.
Coinage History: The Confederatio coppers were part of a plan for a national copper coinage, which was proposed but never officially implemented. These coins were struck in small quantities as patterns.
Design:
Obverse: Features the inscription "CONFEDERATIO", with a design of thirteen stars surrounding the central inscription.
Reverse: Depicts a wreath encircling the denomination and a design featuring the words "UNITED STATES".
Varieties: These pattern coppers were struck in cent and half-cent denominations. Several varieties exist based on the specific design elements and minting techniques.
Interesting Facts: The Confederatio coppers were a precursor to the federal copper coinage that would come with the establishment of the U.S. Mint in 1792. These coins demonstrate early efforts to standardize American currency.
Significance of Proposed National Issues (1776-1787)
Early Attempts at National Coinage: These proposed national issues represent the early attempts by the Continental Congress and individual designers to establish a national coinage system. Although most of these coins were never circulated widely, they provided important groundwork for the later establishment of the U.S. Mint.
Decimal System Innovation: The Nova Constellatio coins, in particular, introduced the concept of a decimal-based monetary system, which would later become the foundation of U.S. coinage. This innovative approach was ahead of its time and reflected the desire for a rational and easy-to-use currency system.
Reflection of American Ideals: Many of the proposed coin designs emphasized the ideals of unity, liberty, and the strength of the newly independent United States. Symbols such as the thirteen linked rings, the eye of Providence, and inscriptions like "We Are One" reflected the political and social aspirations of the time.
Highly Collectible Patterns: The coins from this era are extremely rare and valuable, particularly the Continental Currency Dollar and Nova Constellatio patterns. These patterns are some of the most sought-after items in American numismatics due to their historical significance and rarity.
Washington Pieces 1783-1800
The Washington pieces (1783-1800) represent a fascinating chapter in early American numismatics. These coins, medals, and tokens were not officially issued by the U.S. government, but they featured the likeness of George Washington, the first President of the United States. The pieces were struck primarily by private mints and individuals in the United States and Great Britain, reflecting the admiration for Washington as a symbol of leadership and the growing national identity.
Historical Context
In the years following the American Revolution, the new United States lacked an official coinage system, and foreign coins continued to circulate widely. With Washington emerging as a national hero and symbol of the new republic, his image was often used on privately struck pieces to create a sense of national pride and to fill the void of an official American currency.
The Washington pieces fall into several categories, including medals, tokens, and patterns. Many were issued to commemorate specific events or to serve as currency substitutes during this period of monetary instability.
Notable Washington Pieces (1783-1800)
1. Washington Before Boston Medal (1776, but related to this period)
Designer: Designed by Pierre Simon Duvivier, a French engraver, and struck in France.
Coinage History: This medal was commissioned by the Continental Congress in 1776 to commemorate Washington’s victory at the Siege of Boston. Although struck in France and not part of the currency system, it is one of the earliest and most famous depictions of Washington on a coin-like object.
Design:
Obverse: Features a bust of George Washington in military uniform with the inscription “G. WASHINGTON” around the edge.
Reverse: Depicts Washington on horseback, receiving the Bostonian capitulation, with Latin inscriptions.
Interesting Facts: The medal was presented to Washington himself in gold, but silver and bronze versions were struck later.
2. 1783 Washington Liberty & Independence Piece
Designer: The design is attributed to engraver Thomas Wyon, a British die-sinker.
Coinage History: The 1783 Washington Liberty & Independence piece is one of the earliest Washington tokens, believed to have been privately struck in England. It was intended to celebrate American independence and Washington’s role in securing it.
Design:
Obverse: Features a left-facing bust of George Washington in military uniform, with the inscription "WASHINGTON & INDEPENDENCE" around the border.
Reverse: Shows a wreath with the date “1783” inside, and the word “UNITED STATES”.
Varieties: There are several varieties of this piece, including differences in the portrait and wreath details. Some varieties were struck in copper, others in brass.
Interesting Facts: This piece is often considered a pattern coin and was not used in circulation, though it circulated as a commemorative token for many years.
3. 1785 Washington Unity States Cent
Designer: Believed to be designed by Joseph Wright, an early American artist and engraver.
Coinage History: Struck in England in 1785, this token was one of the first to propose using Washington’s image on official American coinage. It reflects the effort to create a Washington-centric currency that would replace the widespread use of foreign coins.
Design:
Obverse: Features a right-facing bust of Washington, with “WASHINGTON” above and “UNITY STATES OF AMERICA” around the border.
Reverse: Displays a wreath enclosing the denomination “ONE CENT”.
Interesting Facts: Although it was never adopted for official coinage, it remains a significant piece in the context of early American currency proposals.
4. 1791 Washington Cent (Small Eagle)
Designer: The coin is attributed to John Gregory Hancock, a renowned engraver in Birmingham, England.
Coinage History: This token was struck in 1791 and intended to be used as a prototype for U.S. federal coinage, although it was not officially authorized by Congress. The piece was privately produced in England, but it made its way into circulation in the U.S.
Design:
Obverse: A right-facing bust of George Washington in military uniform, with the inscription “WASHINGTON PRESIDENT”.
Reverse: Features a small eagle perched on a globe, with the inscription “ONE CENT” and a wreath around the edges.
Varieties: There are several varieties of the 1791 Washington Cent, including differences in the eagle's size and design details. Some versions feature a large eagle on the reverse.
Interesting Facts: The 1791 Washington Cent was one of the first serious attempts to place Washington’s portrait on official U.S. coinage, but Congress ultimately decided against using a living person’s likeness on coins, so it was never officially adopted.
5. 1792 Washington Roman Head Cent
Designer: Designed by John Gregory Hancock, based in Birmingham, England.
Coinage History: This pattern coin was struck in England and was intended to be a proposal for a U.S. cent. The design was a stylistic departure from previous Washington pieces, featuring a classical Roman-style portrait of Washington.
Design:
Obverse: Shows a bust of Washington styled like a Roman emperor, with the inscription “WASHINGTON” around the edge.
Reverse: Depicts an eagle with outstretched wings, the denomination "ONE CENT", and a wreath around the edges.
Varieties: There are a few varieties based on the placement of the inscription and details in the portrait.
Interesting Facts: Known as the “Roman Head” cent due to Washington’s depiction in the classical style, this piece was controversial because it was seen as too monarchistic for the young republic, which had just rejected monarchy.
6. 1795 Washington North Wales Halfpenny
Designer: Unknown, but the piece was produced in Birmingham, England.
Coinage History: This was a British copper halfpenny token, privately issued by a Welsh mining company. Although it was not intended for American circulation, it featured Washington’s likeness, and many pieces were shipped to the U.S. and used in commerce.
Design:
Obverse: Shows a left-facing bust of George Washington, with the inscription “GEORGE WASHINGTON”.
Reverse: Displays a wreath with the inscription “NORTH WALES”.
Interesting Facts: These tokens were issued by private enterprises in England but found their way into U.S. commerce due to the scarcity of official coinage.
7. 1799 Funeral Medal
Designer: Designed by Jacob Perkins, an American engraver based in Newburyport, Massachusetts.
Coinage History: This medal was issued to commemorate the death of George Washington in 1799 and was distributed during public memorial services for the former president.
Design:
Obverse: Features a right-facing bust of Washington with the inscription “HE IS IN GLORY, THE WORLD IN TEARS”.
Reverse: Inscribed with the date of Washington’s death, “December 14, 1799”, along with a funerary urn and the words “WASHINGTON”.
Interesting Facts: The Washington Funeral Medal is one of the earliest commemorative medals struck in the U.S. and holds immense historical significance. It reflects the deep national mourning following Washington’s death.
Significance of Washington Pieces (1783-1800)
National Iconography: The Washington pieces are some of the earliest examples of American numismatic items featuring a living or recently deceased national figure. George Washington was a unifying figure, and these coins, medals, and tokens helped to promote his image as the father of the country.
Private Minting and Foreign Production: Many of these pieces were not minted in the U.S. but in England. The fact that foreign mints took the initiative to produce coins featuring Washington highlights his global significance and the shortage of official coinage in the U.S. at the time.
Transition to Official Coinage: Although these Washington pieces were not part of the official U.S. coinage system, they played a role in the eventual establishment of the U.S. Mint and the creation of federal coinage. They represent the experimental phase of American numismatics and efforts to fill the void left by a lack of formal U.S. coins.
Rare and Collectible: Many of the Washington pieces are considered rare, especially varieties like the 1783 Washington & Independence piece and the 1792 Roman Head cent. These coins and medals are highly sought after by collectors due to their historical importance and scarcity.
Libertas Americana Medals 1781
The Libertas Americana medal of 1781 is one of the most famous and historically significant medals in the history of American numismatics. It was designed to commemorate key victories in the American Revolutionary War, and its imagery and inscriptions celebrated both American independence and the critical alliance with France. The medal was conceived by Benjamin Franklin, who was serving as the American envoy in Paris at the time. He played an instrumental role in its creation, commissioning it to serve as a token of gratitude to France and as a symbol of American liberty.
Designer and Creation
Designer: The primary artist and engraver of the Libertas Americana medal was Augustin Dupré, one of France's leading medalists of the 18th century. Dupré was known for his exceptional craftsmanship and his involvement in the production of other important revolutionary-era medals.
Concept: The concept of the medal was proposed by Benjamin Franklin, who had a hand in its overall symbolism and inscriptions. Franklin worked with Dupré to create a design that would not only celebrate American independence but also acknowledge the pivotal role played by France in supporting the American cause.
Date: 1781, with most medals being struck in 1782.
Historical Context and Symbolism
The Libertas Americana medal was created to commemorate the pivotal battles of the American Revolution, particularly the surrender of British General Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown in 1781 and the Battle of Saratoga in 1777. These victories were seen as critical turning points that ensured American independence.
Key Symbolism:
Obverse: The obverse of the medal features a bust of Liberty, symbolized as a young woman with flowing hair, adorned with a liberty cap on a pole. The cap, known as the Phrygian cap, is an ancient symbol of freedom. Above her head is the inscription "LIBERTAS AMERICANA", meaning "American Liberty." The date "4 JUIL. 1776" is inscribed at the bottom, representing the date of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Symbolism: The bust of Liberty with the Phrygian cap reflects the ideals of freedom and independence, while the date reinforces the significance of American independence.
Reverse: The reverse side is equally rich in symbolism. It depicts an allegorical scene where the infant Hercules (symbolizing the young United States) strangles two snakes, representing the defeat of British forces at Saratoga and Yorktown. Behind Hercules, the goddess Minerva (representing France) protects him with a shield emblazoned with the fleur-de-lis, symbolizing French support. In the background, a lion (symbolizing Britain) is retreating.
Inscription: The reverse includes the inscription "NON SINE DIIS ANIMOSUS INFANS", meaning "The fearless infant is not without divine aid." Below this scene are the dates "17 OCT. 1777" (Saratoga) and "19 OCT. 1781" (Yorktown), marking the two pivotal American victories.
Symbolism: Hercules represents the strength and perseverance of the fledgling United States, with Minerva symbolizing France's crucial role in protecting and aiding the new nation. The retreating lion illustrates Britain's defeat.
Varieties and Striking
The Libertas Americana medal was struck primarily in two metals:
Bronze: The bronze version of the medal is the most common, though still quite rare. It was distributed primarily to prominent American and French political and military figures as a symbol of thanks and recognition for their efforts during the Revolution.
Silver: A much rarer silver version was also struck, with fewer than 30 known examples in existence. These were reserved for the most important recipients, including high-ranking French officials and members of the American government.
Gold: A few gold specimens were produced, but these are exceedingly rare and were likely intended for very specific and high-ranking individuals, such as Louis XVI of France. Only one or two examples of the gold version are believed to have been produced.
Interesting Historic Facts
Franklin’s Influence: The Libertas Americana medal is widely seen as Benjamin Franklin's masterpiece in the realm of medallic art. He conceived of the design, worked closely with the artist Augustin Dupré, and oversaw its production in Paris. Franklin intended the medal to serve as a diplomatic gesture to France and as a reminder of their alliance.
Diplomatic Symbol: The medal was given as a diplomatic gift to leading figures in both France and the United States. Franklin presented it to the French king, Louis XVI, as well as to French military officers who had supported the American cause, such as General Rochambeau and Admiral de Grasse. It was also sent to key American figures like George Washington.
Inspiration for U.S. Coinage: The design of the Libertas Americana medal is said to have influenced later U.S. coin designs, particularly the Flowing Hair and Draped Bust coinage of the late 18th century. The image of Liberty with flowing hair and the Phrygian cap became iconic symbols of the American spirit of freedom and independence, which appeared on U.S. coinage well into the 19th century.
High Collectibility: Due to its historical significance and striking design, the Libertas Americana medal is one of the most sought-after items in American numismatics. Both the bronze and silver versions are rare, and their value has increased significantly over the years.
Varieties and Re-strikes
In addition to the original strikes in bronze, silver, and gold, there have been re-strikes of the Libertas Americana medal in later years. Some of these re-strikes were made in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly as interest in early American history and numismatics grew. Collectors must be aware of these re-strikes, as they are more common and less valuable than the original strikes from 1781-1782.