1861 Parsons Two-and-a-Half Dollar - Copper Gilt

Coin Details

Description

The 1861 John Parsons & Company Two-and-a-Half Dollar in copper gilt is an off-metal striking of the quarter eagle dies with an applied gold wash over a copper base. The gilt finish was intended to give the coin the visual appearance of the gold original while using an inexpensive base metal. The copper gilt quarter eagle represents the most visually deceptive of the Parsons off-metal patterns, as the combination of correct size and golden color could closely approximate the actual gold coin. Only the weight difference would immediately betray the base metal composition. Gilt copper patterns from smaller territorial mints like Parsons are among the rarest items in all of American numismatics. These pieces bridge the gap between functional coinage and numismatic collectible, representing the frontier minter's acknowledgment of the collecting community.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare. Copper gilt Parsons off-metal patterns may be unique or known in fewer than 3 examples.