1838-P (Philadelphia) Patterns & Trial Coins

Coin / United States of America / 1838 / Philadelphia / Patterns & Trial Coins / Other / Varied

This coin is a fascinating piece of American numismatic history, hailing from the year 1838. It belongs to the series of Patterns & Trial Coins, which were struck to test new designs or compositions before official minting. This particular coin was minted at the Philadelphia mint, identified by its mint mark "P". Uniquely, this coin is categorized as having a denomination of "Other / Varied," indicating that it may not correspond to a standard U.S. currency denomination. It is manufactured from brass, a material often experimented with during this period. Though the coin displays the year 1838, it carries the designation of "No Date on Coin," suggesting that it lacks an official date stamp on its surface. This absence of a definitive date can add to its intrigue and historical appeal. The dimensions of this coin are not specified, as indicated by values of zero for width, height, and diameter, which may imply either that the measurements are not documented or that this specific type of coin does not conform to traditional sizing parameters. Interestingly, the coin's mintage is also indicated as zero, which can imply that either it was never officially produced in large numbers or that it is a unique prototype intended primarily for observation and trial rather than for circulation. In summary, this 1838 brass pattern coin from the Philadelphia mint is an exceptional artifact that exemplifies the experimental nature of coin design in early American history, presenting collectors with a rare opportunity to own a piece that stands apart from the regular currency of the time.