Washington & Independence – The Promise of 1783

George Washington’s portrait and a seated figure of Liberty give this tribute a direct, enduring message: independence secured and a new nation taking shape. Intaglio Mint revisits the Washington & Independence cent design in 2 troy ounces of .999 fine silver, with a 39mm diameter and brilliant uncirculated finish. This is a modern silver tribute, not an original eighteenth-century coin.

Why 1783 Matters

The year 1783 marked a decisive moment in the American story. Signed on September 3, the Treaty of Paris formally recognized the United States as an independent nation and brought the Revolutionary War with Great Britain to an end. John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and John Jay negotiated for the American side.

That history gives the pairing of Washington and independence particular resonance. The design connects a recognizable leader with a larger idea, while the reverse presents Liberty through a human figure and symbolic objects. The tribute’s historical date refers to the subject being remembered; it does not identify when this modern round was struck.

Obverse Design

A left-facing portrait of George Washington anchors the composition. “WASHINGTON & INDEPENDENCE” surrounds him, making the relationship between the man and the national ideal the focus of the design.

Reverse Design

Liberty sits facing left, extending an olive branch in her right hand and holding a staff topped with a cap in her left. “UNITED STATES” follows the upper curve. The calm seated pose contrasts with the formal portrait on the obverse, giving the two sides complementary character.

A Historical Design in Fine Silver

The two-ounce format gives collectors a substantial modern interpretation of the cent motif, retaining its portrait, allegorical figure and inscriptions in a larger silver presentation.

Specifications

• Weight: 2 troy ounces
• Purity: .999 fine silver
• Diameter: 39mm
• Thickness: approximately 6mm
• Edge: Reeded
• Finish: Brilliant Uncirculated

Explore more designs in our silver round collection.