1783 Washington & Independence - Silver Restrike Grained Edge Cent

Coin Details

Description

Cataloged as Baker 4A, Musante GW-106A, and Whitman 10345, this silver restrike with grained (reeded) edge elevates the 1783 Washington & Independence cent from a circulating token to a premium numismatic piece. The original copper issues bearing Washington's military bust on the obverse and a wreath with ONE CENT denomination on the reverse were produced in England, likely at the Birmingham works of button and token manufacturers who supplied colonial American markets. Silver restrikes were produced in very limited quantities as presentation pieces for distinguished collectors or officials, and their survival rate is correspondingly low. The grained edge treatment adds a further distinguishing feature, as it differs from the lettered and plain edge variants cataloged under other Baker numbers. The WASHINGTON & INDEPENDENCE legend on the obverse reflects the association of Washington's name with the patriotic cause during the period when these tokens circulated alongside a chaotic mix of foreign coins, state coppers, and privately issued pieces in the absence of a unified national coinage. Very rare in silver composition, these restrikes are considerably scarcer than their copper counterparts and represent some of the most desirable pieces in the Washington token series for advanced collectors assembling comprehensive type sets of early American Washington-related numismatic material.

Rarity Notes

Very rare. Silver restrikes are much scarcer than copper versions.

Cross References

Baker 4A; Musante GW-106A; Whitman 10345