Object Details
mint
U.S. Mint, Philadelphia
designer
Gobrecht, Christian
Description (Brief)
One (1) dollar coin, proof
United States, 1861
Obverse Image: Seated Liberty with shield and cap on staff. 13 stars.
Obverse Text: LIBERTY / 1861
Reverse Image: Eagle with shield over chest, clutching arrows and branch in talons.
Reverse Text: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA / ONE DOL.
Description
Coins, like this silver dollar, were hoarded at the outbreak of war. This coin had inherent value because it was made from a precious metal. By 1862 metallic coins were rarely found in circulation. The Federal Government and private businesses alike felt the pressure to keep their financial and economic interests in check. Both thought the solution was to introduce new forms of currency.
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Transfer: US Mint
date made
1861
ID Number
1985.0441.0609
accession number
1985.0441
catalog number
1985.0441.0609
Object Name
coin
Physical Description
silver (overall metal)
0 (overall die axis)
0 (overall die axis measurement)
struck (overall production method)
Measurements
overall: .26 cm x 3.77 cm; 3/32 in x 1 15/32 in
place made
United States
place of issue
United States
See more items in
Work and Industry: National Numismatic Collection
Civil War
Coins, Currency and Medals
Data Source
National Museum of American History
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nmah_1081976