Patterns (1806)

History and Overview

Continuing the preceding theme, no patterns are known to have actually been produced in the calendar year 1806, although some may have been made. At the time there was no numismatic interest in patterns, and none were saved for cabinet purposes, nor has anyone ever located records of their production. The piece listed under this date is a curious die combination of unknown origin and purpose.

The year 1806 was a busy one at the Mint, with substantial quantities of coinage made of different denominations, including the half cent, cent, quarter dollar, half dollar, $2.50, and $5.

A half dollar obverse die survives from this year and is presently owned by the American Numismatic Society. In the early 20th century it was used to make a series of uniface impressions and other items for collectors (see Appendix A).

Collecting Perspective

The copper quarter dollar/cent is unique.