Early U.S. Coins - Do I have enough? Have I missed one?

‘Not a U.S. coin (there were no U.S. coins until 1793 and none with a figure of Washington until 1932). You have a medal from the “Washington & Independence Series” struck in about 1820 by James Kean of Philadelphia. The piece is copper and is 28.2 mm in size and weighs 120 grains.

The obverse shows a laureate and mantled bust of Washington facing left. The legend, “Washington and Independence”, is around. The reverse imitates the reverse of a U.S. cent with ONE CENT within an olive wreath with a bow at the bottom. Around, UNITY STATES OF AMERICA (the wording was used to avoid the charge of counterfeiting). 1/100 below, plain edge. Value depends on condition. Approximate range: $60 – $500. Note that modern copies exist. These are worthless.

Thanks for the info. The above is what I found on "coinsite.com". Yes, the US mint started in 1793, and is celebrating its 225th anniversary. I always thought this one was minted in the colonies, as several private jewelers and silversmiths were printing coins. Good to know that it was actually made in 1820.

 

Log in or Sign up to hide this ad.

chain & wreath large cents