Why it is so hard to find very early US Silver and Gold coins

[Steve in PA]

I save this article from the 11-12-97 issue of Coin World. It is an interesting story about a survey the US mint did in 1830 regarding the silver and gold coins that were currently circulating in the United States. Right click on the article, then Open in New Window to enlarge.

 

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[port ewen ace]

........ and now we know----

 

[ToddsPoint]

In 1830 there were more people in the US than there were US coins. Is it any wonder they used Spanish coins? Gary

 

[smokeythecat]

We occasionally find a capped bust dime. I think four ever. And that's five diggers. No pre 1820 US silver coins EVER. And the article makes sense as any Spanish silvers dated after about 1790 are totally worn out. We do find numerous half and large cents pre 1815 however. Over years, that is.

 

[Steve in PA]

We occasionally find a capped bust dime. I think four ever. And that's five diggers. No pre 1820 US silver coins EVER. And the article makes sense as any Spanish silvers dated after about 1790 are totally worn out. We do find numerous half and large cents pre 1815 however. Over years, that is.

In 35 years I have found 72 Spanish silvers, but as far as early US silver goes, all I have found are two Draped Bust dimes 1797 and 1803, and two Capped Bust 1827 10C and 1830 5C. Heck, I have a hard time finding seated silver.

 

[1235CE]

The lack of early US silver finds is very interesting......25 years detecting in Mass/NY/CT/VT and you are looking at my only Draped Bust silver in my avatar.....but what a feeling when you realize what you are holding!.....lots of Spanish silver including a 1778 8 Reale but the early American silver is super scarce!.....but if it can happen once.....

HH all!

Greg

 

[Steve in PA]

The lack of early US silver finds is very interesting......25 years detecting in Mass/NY/CT/VT and you are looking at my only Draped Bust silver in my avatar.....but what a feeling when you realize what you are holding!.....lots of Spanish silver including a 1778 8 Reale but the early American silver is super scarce!.....but if it can happen once.....

HH all!

Greg

I am proof that it can happen twice, but I don't recommend holding your breath