The Martha Washington Five-Cent coin, often referred to as a “test piece,” holds a special place in American numismatic history. Struck in the late 18th century, these coins were never intended for circulation but were produced as part of an experiment by the U.S. Mint to evaluate a potential design for a new coin. What … Read more
The year 1873 is a pivotal moment in the history of the United States Mint, a year marked by profound changes that would shape the nation’s coinage system for decades to come. Amidst economic turmoil, political pressure, and growing demands for a stable currency, 1873 saw crucial reforms that revolutionized the Mint’s operations and its … Read more
Thanksgiving is one of the most cherished holidays in American culture, marked by celebrations of gratitude, family, and tradition. The symbolism of Thanksgiving—evoking images of abundance, harvest, and historical unity—has been depicted in various forms throughout U.S. history, including on coins. Classic commemorative coins featuring Thanksgiving motifs offer a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of … Read more
The Bicentennial Eisenhower Dollar is a piece of U.S. numismatic history, celebrating the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Struck in 1975 and 1976, the coin features a reverse design that incorporates the Liberty Bell and the moon in honor of the nation’s historic achievements. However, one particular Bicentennial … Read more
The 1883 Liberty Head Nickel, commonly known as the “Without Cents” variety, holds a special place in U.S. numismatics. It was the first year of production for the Liberty Head Nickel, designed by Charles E. Barber, and it quickly became infamous for a design oversight that sparked controversy and even fraud. For collectors, this coin … Read more
The World’s Columbian Exposition, held in Chicago in 1893, was a landmark event that celebrated the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s voyage to the New World. To commemorate this monumental occasion, the U.S. Mint produced a series of coins and medals that hold a special place in numismatic history. These pieces are not only remarkable … Read more
The Morgan Dollar, designed by George T. Morgan and minted from 1878 to 1921, remains one of the most iconic and beloved coins in U.S. numismatic history. However, few collectors are aware of the intriguing chapter of its attempted revival in 1964. The production of 1964 Morgan Dollars was short-lived, shrouded in mystery, and remains … Read more
The world of numismatics is buzzing with excitement over the recent spotlight on a truly unique coin: the Proof 1891-O Seated Liberty Dime. Hailing from the historic New Orleans Mint, this remarkable piece is not only a rarity in its series but also a testament to the artistry and skill of 19th-century coin production. A … Read more
For numismatists and collectors alike, early U.S. coins hold a special place, representing a tangible connection to the nation’s formative years. Among the myriad factors that determine a coin’s value and desirability, one often overlooked but immensely significant aspect is natural toning. Natural toning, the result of chemical reactions between a coin’s surface and its … Read more
The U.S. Mint has unveiled the designs for the much-anticipated Greatest Generation Commemorative Coin Collection, a tribute to the men and women who endured and triumphed through the trials of the Great Depression and World War II. These new designs honor the resilience, bravery, and determination of the generation that defined the mid-20th century and … Read more