The Smithsonian Institution houses one of the most impressive numismatic collections in the world. Among its treasures are rare and unique pattern coins—experimental designs created to test new concepts in coinage. These coins represent a fascinating intersection of artistry, technology, and monetary history, offering a glimpse into what might have been. Here are four unique pattern coins housed at the Smithsonian that stand out for their historical and numismatic significance.
1. The 1877 Half Union ($50 Gold Coin)
The Half Union is among the most famous pattern coins in U.S. history. This massive $50 gold piece was never intended for circulation but was designed to explore the feasibility of a high-denomination gold coin. Only two examples exist, both struck in gold, and they are housed at the Smithsonian.
The coin features a portrait of Lady Liberty on the obverse, wearing a coronet inscribed with the word “LIBERTY.” The reverse displays a heraldic eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows, surrounded by the denomination and inscriptions. The sheer size of the Half Union—approximately twice the diameter of a double eagle—makes it a standout piece, and its historical significance as an unrealized concept adds to its allure.
2. The 1879 Stella ($4 Gold Coin)
The Stella is another remarkable pattern coin housed at the Smithsonian. Created in response to a push for the United States to participate in the Latin Monetary Union, the $4 gold coin was intended to facilitate international trade.
Two primary designs were struck: the Flowing Hair and Coiled Hair varieties, both featuring a portrait of Liberty on the obverse. The reverse includes a large star with the denomination inscribed within and the coin’s metallic composition detailed around the edge.
While the Stella never went into production, its experimental purpose and exquisite design make it a favorite among collectors and historians. The Smithsonian holds examples of both varieties, preserving a piece of monetary experimentation that could have altered international commerce.
3. The 1792 Silver-Center Cent
As the U.S. Mint was being established in 1792, one of its earliest experiments was the Silver-Center Cent, an ingenious attempt to create a one-cent coin that was both practical in size and contained its full value in metal.
The coin features a copper planchet with a small silver plug in the center, ensuring it met the required value of one cent. The obverse depicts a simple yet striking Liberty head design, while the reverse showcases an encircling wreath.
The Smithsonian’s example of this coin highlights the challenges faced by the fledgling Mint in balancing cost, weight, and practicality. Though the design was ultimately abandoned in favor of an all-copper cent, the Silver-Center Cent remains an important milestone in U.S. numismatic history.
4. The 1854 Flying Eagle Cent Pattern
Before the Flying Eagle Cent entered circulation in 1856, the U.S. Mint experimented with various designs and compositions. The 1854 Flying Eagle pattern coin at the Smithsonian is a fascinating precursor to the circulating version, showcasing a bold eagle in flight on the obverse and a simple wreath on the reverse.
Struck in various metals, including copper-nickel and pure copper, these pattern coins were part of the Mint’s exploration of a smaller, more cost-effective cent. The Smithsonian’s example underscores the evolution of U.S. small-cent coinage and the meticulous experimentation involved in perfecting its design and composition.
Conclusion
These four unique pattern coins housed at the Smithsonian offer a captivating look at the artistry, innovation, and historical context of U.S. coinage. Each piece tells a story of experimentation and ambition, preserving moments in numismatic history that could have shaped the nation’s monetary future. For collectors and historians alike, these coins are a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the U.S. Mint.
FAQs
What is a pattern coin?
A pattern coin is a prototype created to test new designs, denominations, or compositions before a coin is approved for circulation.
Are the Smithsonian’s pattern coins available for public viewing?
Many of the Smithsonian’s pattern coins are part of its National Numismatic Collection, with select pieces displayed at the National Museum of American History.
What makes the 1877 Half Union so special?
The 1877 Half Union is unique due to its large size and historical significance as a $50 gold coin concept that was never adopted. Only two examples exist, both housed at the Smithsonian.