United States of America 1857 Philadelphia Patterns & Trial Coins $2.50

Coin / United States of America / 1857 / Philadelphia / Patterns & Trial Coins / $2.50 (Two and a Half Dollars)

This coin is an intriguing example from the series of Patterns & Trial Coins produced by the United States Mint. Minted in Philadelphia, this $2.50 denomination coin, designed by the notable engraver James Barton Longacre, reflects a fascinating piece of numismatic history from the year 1857. Crafted from white metal and classified as a Mint Strike, it demonstrates the artistry and craftsmanship of its time. However, it is important to note that the coin has no recorded mintage, indicating it may have been part of a very limited trial or pattern strike that was never officially circulated. This coin lacks specified dimensions such as width, height, and diameter, alongside a weight listing of zero, which may suggest that it exists in a conceptual or unique state rather than as a tangible specimen. Furthermore, it does not bear a mint mark, denoting it was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, and it features an edge type listed as 'N/A', suggesting that the edge design may not conform to standard coinage specifications. Overall, this 1857 $2.50 Pattern coin stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of the time and would be a valuable addition to any serious collection of American numismatics, particularly for those interested in patterns and trial coins.