The coin in question is a rare and historically significant example of a pattern or trial coin from the United States, specifically minted in Philadelphia in 1863. The denomination of this piece is 1 cent (1¢) and it is crafted from bronze, a material that adds to its unique character and appeal among collectors. This coin represents a distinctive part of numismatic history, falling within the category of Patterns & Trial Coins, which were often produced to test designs and materials before finalizing a more standard production. As such, it carries a rich narrative of the experimental nature of coinage during its time. Interestingly, this specific coin lacks a mint mark, which is not uncommon for such trial pieces, and it comes from a mintage that is recorded as zero, further underscoring its rarity. Its dimensions and weight are also listed as zero, which may suggest that this coin is preserved in such a way that its specific characteristics have yet to be fully documented or that it exists as a conceptual piece rather than a physically defined specimen. With its striking history and the innovations of the era, this 1863 bronze trial coin represents not just a denomination but a story of experimental coinage in the United States. Given its nature as a pattern and its zero mintage, it holds potential value and interest to numismatists and historians alike.
