1861-P (Philadelphia) Patterns & Trial Coins

Coin / United States of America / 1861 / Philadelphia / Patterns & Trial Coins / Other / Varied

This coin is part of the "Patterns & Trial Coins" series, struck in 1861 at the Philadelphia Mint under the currency of the United States (USD). It bears the mint mark 'P', indicating its origin. It is categorized as an 'Other / Varied' denomination, which suggests it likely served a specific purpose or was experimental in nature, rather than intended for general circulation. While the physical dimensions—such as width, height, and diameter—are recorded as zero, indicating that data might be unrecorded or it is potentially a unique piece without a standard size, it is important to note that such characteristics could be critical for collectors. Similarly, the weight is also listed as zero, which further complicates the evaluation of this coin, suggesting it may be a rarity or perhaps a trial piece not fully struck into finished form. The mintage of this coin is noted as zero, which implies that it either was never produced for circulation or exists in extremely limited quantities. This could make it particularly appealing to collectors, as pieces from this category often carry significant historical and numismatic value, especially from a time of transition in U.S. currency and amid the backdrop of the Civil War. Overall, this coin represents an intriguing piece of American numismatic history, embodying both the complexity and uniqueness of trial coins from the mid-19th century in the United States. Collectors may find it of considerable interest not only due to its age and provenance but also because of its distinctive classification within the realm of patterns and trial pieces.