1878 Proof Twenty Cent Piece
Owned by 16 LuckyCoin collectors
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About the Twenty Cent Piece
The Twenty Cent Piece, minted in the United States from 1875 to 1878, is a fairly rare and distinctive coin. The Twenty Cent Pieces were the first United States coins to feature a denomination using the decimal system, which is the basis of our currency today. They are composed of 90% silver, 10% copper and weigh 5 grams.
Adorned on the obverse of the Twenty Cent Piece is a Seated Liberty design, depicting a portrait of the Goddess Liberty with her draped clothing, holding a Union Shield in one hand and a Sword of Freedom in the other. In the background, thirteen stars surround Liberty, representing the original United States Colonies. Around the portrait is the inscription “LIBERTY” along with the year of minting.
On the reverse of the coin is a similar design to that of the Seated Liberty dime. The inscription reads “TWENTY CENTS” at the top, with a large wreath encircling the coin’s face. The wreath is a symbol of bounty, celebrating the United States’ constant production. At the bottom is the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”.
The Twenty Cent Pieces were minted at the Philadelphia and Carson City mints, with most coins being produced in Philadelphia. Over 13 million Philadelphia-minted coins were issued, but the Carson City mint only produced 975 coins, making them notably more rare and much higher in value.
Today, the Twenty Cent Piece is highly sought-after by collectors, though some can still be found in circulation for a reasonable price. With various grades and conditions available, the coin's value can range anywhere from $45 to over $13,000. The rarity and unique designs of the Twenty Cent Piece give it a timeless charm, making it a prized and beloved coin even over a century after its production.
The 1878 Proof Twenty Cent Piece coin, has a total mintage of 600, struck at the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania mint, and engraved by Christian Gobrecht. Made of silver (.900) (.100 copper), weighing 5 grams, with a diameter of 22 mm, and featuring a plain edge.
The obverse is seated liberty with shield and phrygian cap on pole, surrounded by 13 stars. It reads “1875”. The reverse is eagle grasping arrows and olive branch. It reads “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA TWENTY CENTS”.
Price by Grade
Sign up to see prices| Grade | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| 50 | $2,600.00 |
| 60 | $3,200.00 |
| 62 | $3,900.00 |
| 63 | $4,000.00 |
| 64 | $6,000.00 |
| 65 | $10,000.00 |
Specifications
- Type
- Standard circulation coin
- Composition
- Silver (.900) (.100 copper)
- Weight
- 5 g
- Diameter
- 22 mm
- Edge
- Plain
- Designer
- Christian Gobrecht
- Currency
- Dollar (1785-date)
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the mintage of the 1878 Proof Twenty Cent Piece?
- The 1878 Proof Twenty Cent Piece has a total mintage of 600.
- What is the 1878 Proof Twenty Cent Piece made of?
- The 1878 Proof Twenty Cent Piece is made of silver (.900) (.100 copper), weighs 5 grams, measures 22 mm in diameter.
- Where was the 1878 Proof Twenty Cent Piece minted?
- The 1878 Proof Twenty Cent Piece was struck at the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania mint.
- How much is a 1878 Proof Twenty Cent Piece worth?
- A 1878 Proof Twenty Cent Piece is valued between $2600 and $10000, depending on grade and condition.
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