Sommer Is Shilling W-15445 Mule Dickeson Copy-Wuesthoff Fantasy

Coin Details

Description

A fantasy mule combining Sommer Islands Dickeson copy dies with unrelated Wuesthoff dies, cataloged as W-15445 in the Whitman reference. Unlike Dickeson's straightforward reproductions, this mule pairs colonial coin designs in a combination that never existed in the original series, creating an entirely novel numismatic item. The Wuesthoff family was active in the Philadelphia numismatic scene during the mid-to-late 19th century. Mule coins and medals — pieces struck from two dies not originally intended for use together — were a popular category of 19th-century numismatic novelties. The W-15445 mule combines a Sommer Islands shilling die from Dickeson's copy series with a die from the Wuesthoff workshop, creating a hybrid piece that collectors of the era found intriguing. The Sommer Islands side reproduces the iconic wild hog or sailing ship design from the circa-1616 originals. This piece represents the intersection of two Philadelphia numismatic traditions: Dickeson's faithful colonial reproductions and the Wuesthoffs' more creative approach to die pairing. The fantasy designation acknowledges that this combination was never intended by either original party and exists purely as a collector's novelty. Wuesthoff-Dickeson mules are rare and highly collectible. They appeal to specialists in both Sommer Islands numismatic material and in the broader category of 19th-century American numismatic fantasies and mules. The W-15445 designation provides a standard reference point for this specific die combination.

Rarity Notes

Rare. Mule combinations were produced in very limited quantities and are prized by specialists in numismatic curiosities and the Sommer Islands copy series.

Cross References

W-15445; Dickeson Copy / Wuesthoff Fantasy Mule; Original: Sommer Islands Shilling, circa 1616