Numismatic

1873-1878 Trade Dollar Fine

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Struck between 1873 and 1878, this silver dollar represents a fascinating chapter in American coinage. Minted with a purity of 90 percent silver, each coin contains 0.7874 troy ounces of precious metal. These pieces were specifically created to facilitate commerce, carrying a unique weight and purity designation directly on the reverse design to establish their integrity. The obverse of the coin showcases a seated figure of Lady Liberty. She is depicted alongside a bundle of wheat, holding a ribbon inscribed with the word LIBERTY. The familiar motto IN GOD WE TRUST is also visible on this side, anchoring the design in traditional American symbolism. On the reverse, a majestic eagle spreads its wings while grasping three arrows and an olive branch in its talons. The inscriptions on this side highlight the coin's specific physical properties, reading TRADE DOLLAR and 420 GRAINS, 900 FINE. This detailed labeling served as an official guarantee of the coin's substantial silver content during its era of circulation.