The 1787 Brasher Doubloon: In the world of rare coins, few are as iconic or historically significant as the 1787 Brasher Doubloon. This gold coin, minted by Ephraim Brasher, a renowned silversmith and goldsmith, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of early American craftsmanship. With its unique design, limited mintage, and fascinating backstory, the Brasher Doubloon has become one of the most sought-after numismatic treasures in history.
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| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1787 Brasher Doubloon |
| Creator | Ephraim Brasher (Silversmith & Goldsmith) |
| Historical Context | Minted in the early years of the U.S. when a unified currency system was lacking |
| Design Features | – Obverse: American eagle with outstretched wings, holding an olive branch (peace) and arrows (strength), with “UNUM E PLURIBUS.” – Reverse: Sun rising over a mountain, symbolizing a new nation, with “NOVA EBORACA COLUMBIA EXCELSIOR” (New York, America, Ever Higher). |
| Unique Feature | “EB” hallmark (Brasher’s initials) stamped on the eagle’s breast or wing |
| Rarity | Extremely rare; only seven known specimens exist |
| Auction Records | 2021: Sold for $9.36 million, one of the most expensive gold coins ever sold |
| Significance | Symbol of American ingenuity, economic independence, and early numismatic craftsmanship |
| Collector’s Appeal | Highly prized due to its rarity, historical importance, and artistic value |
Table of Contents
The Man Behind the Coin: Ephraim Brasher
Ephraim Brasher was a skilled artisan and neighbor of George Washington in New York City. In the late 18th century, the United States was still in its infancy, and the country lacked a unified currency system. Brasher, recognizing the need for reliable coinage, petitioned the New York State legislature to produce copper coins. When his proposal was rejected, he took matters into his own hands and began minting gold coins, including the now-famous Brasher Doubloon.
Design and Symbolism
The 1787 Brasher Doubloon is a masterpiece of early American design. On the obverse side, it features a striking image of the American eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch and arrows—a symbol of peace and strength. The eagle is encircled by the words “UNUM E PLURIBUS,” a nod to the national motto “E Pluribus Unum” (Out of Many, One). The reverse side displays a sun rising over a mountain, symbolizing the dawn of a new nation, along with the words “NOVA EBORACA COLUMBIA EXCELSIOR,” which translate to “New York, America, Ever Higher.”
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One of the most distinctive features of the coin is Brasher’s hallmark—a small punch mark bearing his initials “EB.” This mark, often found on the eagle’s breast or wing, serves as a guarantee of the coin’s authenticity and quality.
Rarity and Value
Only a handful of Brasher Doubloons were ever minted, making them exceptionally rare. Today, just seven examples are known to exist, each with slight variations in design and placement of the “EB” hallmark. The rarity and historical significance of these coins have made them highly prized by collectors and institutions alike.
In 2021, one of the Brasher Doubloons sold at auction for a staggering $9.36 million, setting a record for the most expensive gold coin ever sold. This sale underscores the enduring allure of the Brasher Doubloon as both a numismatic treasure and a piece of American history.
A Window into Early America
The 1787 Brasher Doubloon is more than just a rare coin—it is a tangible link to the early days of the United States. At a time when the nation was still defining its identity, Brasher’s coinage represented a bold step toward economic independence and self-sufficiency. The coin’s imagery and inscriptions reflect the optimism and ambition of a young nation striving to establish itself on the global stage.
Conclusion
The 1787 Brasher Doubloon remains a symbol of American ingenuity and a prized artifact for collectors and historians. Its intricate design, limited mintage, and connection to the founding era of the United States make it a true numismatic treasure. As one of the most valuable coins in the world, the Brasher Doubloon continues to captivate the imagination of those who appreciate the artistry and history it embodies. Whether viewed as an investment, a collectible, or a piece of history, the Brasher Doubloon is a shining example of America’s rich numismatic heritage.
