1873-CC U.S. Trade Dollar Tribute – 1 Troy Ounce .999 Fine Silver Round

Product Description

A legendary Carson City rarity, faithfully reimagined in one troy ounce of .999 fine silver.

First issued in 1873, the United States Trade Dollar was created specifically to compete with large silver coins circulating throughout China and the broader Asian marketplace. Its substantial silver content, unmistakably American imagery, and fascinating history have made it one of the most distinctive and widely collected coins of the 19th century.

This tribute honors the coveted 1873-CC Trade Dollar, the first Trade Dollar struck at the legendary Carson City Mint. Designed by United States Mint Chief Engraver William Barber, the original issue combined classical representations of Liberty with symbols of American commerce, agriculture, and national strength.

The obverse features Liberty seated upon bales of merchandise beside a sheaf of wheat, representing the agricultural and commercial wealth of the United States. She extends an olive branch toward the sea, symbolizing peaceful trade with nations across the Pacific. Thirteen stars surround the composition, while IN GOD WE TRUST and the historic date 1873 appear below.

The reverse showcases a powerful American bald eagle with wings spread, clutching arrows and an olive branch. The inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and E PLURIBUS UNUM surround the eagle, while the coveted CC mintmark honors the Carson City Mint. The original coin’s specifications have been respectfully adapted to identify this privately minted tribute as 480 GRAINS, .999 FINE AG and ONE TROY OUNCE.

Struck in-house by Intaglio Mint from one troy ounce of .999 fine silver, this 39mm tribute round captures the character of William Barber’s historic design while offering collectors an accessible way to appreciate one of America’s most fascinating silver dollars.

The United States Trade Dollar

During the 19th century, international commerce in Asia relied heavily upon large silver coins, particularly the Mexican peso. To help American merchants compete in this enormous market, Congress authorized a heavier silver Trade Dollar in 1873.

The original Trade Dollar contained 420 grains of 90% silver, making it heavier than the standard U.S. silver dollar of the period. Although it carried a one-dollar denomination, it was intended primarily for export rather than everyday domestic circulation. Many examples sent overseas received chop marks—small symbols stamped into the coins by Asian merchants and bankers to verify their silver content and authenticity. Smithsonian National Museum of American History

The 1873-CC Rarity

The Carson City Mint struck only 124,500 Trade Dollars in 1873, making the inaugural CC issue a prized key date within the series. The original coin was composed of 90% silver, weighed 27.2 grams, measured 38.1mm, and carried William Barber’s celebrated design. PCGS CoinFacts

Most 1873-CC Trade Dollars were exported to Asia, where many circulated extensively and received merchant chop marks. Relatively few survived in high grades, adding to the historic coin’s enduring desirability among collectors of Carson City coinage.

Interesting Facts

• The United States Trade Dollar was first issued in 1873.
• It was designed by U.S. Mint Chief Engraver William Barber.
• Trade Dollars were produced primarily for commerce with China and other Asian markets.
• The original coins contained 420 grains of 90% silver.
• This tribute contains 480 grains, equal to one full troy ounce, of .999 fine silver.
• The CC mintmark identifies the historic original as a product of the Carson City Mint.
• Only 124,500 original 1873-CC Trade Dollars were struck.
• Many Trade Dollars bear Chinese chop marks applied by merchants who tested and accepted the coins.
• Business-strike Trade Dollars were produced for circulation from 1873 through 1878, followed by proof-only issues through 1885.
• The 1884 and 1885 Trade Dollars were unknown to the numismatic community until the early 20th century and remain legendary rarities.

Specifications

• Design: 1873-CC U.S. Trade Dollar Tribute
• Original Designer: William Barber
• Metal: .999 Fine Silver
• Weight: 1 Troy Ounce
• Weight in Grains: 480 Grains
• Diameter: 39mm
• Edge: Reeded
• Mint: Intaglio Mint
• Country of Manufacture: United States

Why Collect This Piece?

The 1873-CC Trade Dollar brings together several of the most compelling chapters in American numismatic history: the legendary Carson City Mint, the opening of Pacific trade, the great silver deposits of the American West, and William Barber’s enduring coinage artistry.

Original examples are scarce and highly prized, particularly in better states of preservation. This one-troy-ounce .999 fine silver tribute offers collectors an impressive and accessible interpretation of the historic design while preserving the unmistakable imagery and coveted CC identity of the original.

Whether collected for its Carson City connection, its Old West heritage, its role in international commerce, or its classic American design, the 1873-CC U.S. Trade Dollar Tribute is a striking addition to any silver or numismatic-themed collection.

This privately minted tribute round is not legal tender and is not affiliated with or issued by the United States Mint.