The 1885 Trade Silver Dollar is a unique and highly sought-after coin in American numismatics due to its rarity and limited mintage. Here are some key points about this coin:
Design: The Trade Silver Dollar was designed by William Barber, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint at the time. The obverse (front) of the coin features a seated figure of Liberty holding a globe in her left hand and an olive branch in her right hand.
The reverse (back) features an eagle with outstretched wings perched on a rock, surrounded by a wreath of corn, cotton, wheat, and tobacco.
Proof Only Issue: The 1885 Trade Silver Dollar is known as a "Proof Only" issue, meaning that it was struck exclusively as a proof coin and was not released into circulation. Proof coins are specially made for collectors and exhibit superior quality and craftsmanship compared to regular circulation coins.
Mintage: The mintage for the 1885 Trade Silver Dollar is extremely low, with only a limited number of proof specimens produced at the Philadelphia Mint. The exact mintage figure is not precisely known due to incomplete records and the possibility of some coins being melted down.
Historical Context: The Trade Silver Dollar series was authorized by the Coinage Act of 1873 in response to the need for a coinage suitable for international trade. These coins were intended to be used in trade with countries that were on the silver standard.
Collector Value: The 1885 Trade Silver Dollar is highly prized by collectors due to its historical significance, low mintage, and scarcity. Well-preserved proof specimens in higher grades command significant premiums in the numismatic market.
Condition and Rarity: As with any coin, the value of the 1885 Trade Silver Dollar is influenced by factors such as its condition (grade), rarity, and overall market demand. Examples in mint state (uncirculated) condition are particularly desirable among collectors.
Stay turned for development