Sommer Is Shilling W-15510 Copper Mule Kenney-5 Dickeson Copy

Coin Details

Description

A copper mule of the Sommer Islands Shilling series cataloged as W-15510 and Kenney-5 in the Dickeson copy program. This fifth cataloged Kenney mule variety represents yet another unique die combination in the extensive Sommer Islands reproduction series. The progression of Kenney numbers from 1 through the higher digits documents the remarkable variety of die pairings that emerged from Dickeson's Sommer Islands copy project. Each copper mule variety — Kenney-1, Kenney-3, and Kenney-5 — uses a different combination of obverse and reverse dies, creating distinct collectible pieces despite sharing the same metal composition. Dickeson's workshop in mid-19th-century Philadelphia evidently maintained a substantial inventory of Sommer Islands dies. The multiple mule varieties suggest either deliberate experimentation with die pairings to create novel collectibles, or a production process where dies were sometimes mixed across striking sessions. Either explanation points to a more complex operation than the simple reproduction of a single die pair. The W-15510/Kenney-5 copper mule continues to be sought by specialists in the Sommer Islands copy series. Advanced collectors aim to acquire each distinct Kenney variety, building comprehensive sets that document the full range of die combinations that emerged from Dickeson's prolific Philadelphia workshop.

Rarity Notes

Rare. One of several copper mule varieties, each with unique die pairing characteristics.

Cross References

W-15510; Kenney-5; Dickeson Copy Mule series; Original: Sommer Islands Shilling, circa 1616