Sommer Is Shilling W-15520 White Metal Mule Kenney-7 Dickeson Copy

Coin Details

Description

A white metal (WM) mule of the Sommer Islands Shilling series cataloged as W-15520 and Kenney-7, the third white metal variety in the Dickeson copy mule series. This piece represents yet another distinct die combination in the comprehensive Kenney classification, struck in the soft tin-based alloy that was commonly used for 19th-century numismatic reproductions. The existence of three different white metal mule varieties (Kenney-2, Kenney-4, and Kenney-7) demonstrates that white metal was a frequently used striking medium in Dickeson's workshop. The alloy's low melting point and softness made it easy to work with, and the resulting pieces showed fine die details effectively despite the metal's vulnerability to long-term deterioration. Each white metal Kenney variety can be distinguished by its specific die pairing — differences in the wild hog obverse, the sailing ship reverse, legend spacing, border details, or other die characteristics identify each unique combination. Careful comparison under magnification reveals the diagnostic features that separate Kenney-2, Kenney-4, and Kenney-7. The W-15520/Kenney-7 mule completes a trio of white metal varieties in the series. Collectors pursuing comprehensive Kenney sets must acquire all three, each representing a documented die combination from Dickeson's prolific Sommer Islands reproduction program.

Rarity Notes

Rare. One of three white metal mule varieties in the Kenney series; well-preserved examples are scarce due to metal fragility.

Cross References

W-15520; Kenney-7; Dickeson Copy Mule series; Original: Sommer Islands Shilling, circa 1616