Numismatic

1873-1878 Trade Dollar VF

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The United States Trade Dollar represents a fascinating chapter in silver coinage, minted specifically to facilitate commerce abroad. Struck in 0.900 fine silver, each of these historic pieces contains 0.7874 troy ounces of precious metal. This particular issue is preserved in Very Fine condition, allowing observers to appreciate the intricate details of its unique design. On the obverse, Lady Liberty is depicted sitting upon a bale of merchandise at the water's edge, holding a ribbon inscribed with the word LIBERTY. A bundle of wheat rests behind her, while the foundation beneath her bears the motto IN GOD WE TRUST. This coastal imagery directly references the coin's intended journey across the oceans. The reverse features a powerful eagle with its wings spread wide, grasping three arrows and an olive branch in its talons. Inscriptions on this side denote the coin's weight and purity, displaying 420 GRAINS and 900 FINE alongside the denomination, TRADE DOLLAR. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM also frame this impressive avian design.