Numismatic

1851-1862 Three Cent Silver Fine/VF

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In the mid nineteenth century, the United States Mint produced an incredibly diminutive silver piece that remains a marvel of American coinage. Minted from 1851 to 1862, this three cent denomination holds the distinction of being the smallest coin ever issued for general circulation by the United States. Containing just 0.0193 troy ounces of silver, its tiny physical footprint presents a unique window into the monetary needs of its era. The design of this tiny coin, created by James Longacre, manages to pack intricate detail into a very small space. The obverse features a prominent shield superimposed over a large, six-pointed star, surrounded by the legend of the issuing nation. On the reverse, the coin displays a bold Roman numeral three, which clearly denotes its face value. This particular coin has survived in Fine to Very Fine condition, showing the honest wear of a piece that once passed through many hands. Its existence is a fascinating testament to a time when even the smallest transactions in daily life were conducted with genuine silver coinage.