Coin Specifications

The specifications for Trade Dollars differed from that of the preceding and subsequent silver dollars, in line with the purpose of the coin. It was struck primarily to be used for export, where it was hoped that the new series would trade more favorably against silver dollars from Spain and Mexico. The diameter of the coin matched the previous Seated Liberty Dollars, however, the weight was increased from 26.73 grams to 27.22 grams, resulting in a higher silver content.

The obverse design of the Trade Dollar features Liberty seated on bales of cotton with an image of the sea in the background. She holds an olive branch extended in her right hand and a scroll with the word “Liberty” in the other. On the reverse is an American Bald Eagle, clutching an olive branch and arrows. Very prominently, an inscription below reads “420 grains, .900 fine”.

The series was only struck for circulation from 1873 to 1878 before the Morgan Dollars would be issued in its place. The production of Trade Dollars in proof only format did continue for a number of years to meet collector demand.

Trade Dollar Coin Specifications

dollars Trade