DON’T TREAD ON ME – 1 AVDP OUNCE .999 FINE COPPER ROUND
Description:
A timeless American symbol of independence, vigilance, and the determination to defend one’s liberty.
The legendary “DON’T TREAD ON ME” warning traces its roots to the earliest days of the American Revolution. The rattlesnake had already emerged as a distinctly American emblem—peaceful when left undisturbed, but formidable when threatened. In 1775, Colonel Christopher Gadsden placed the coiled rattlesnake upon a brilliant yellow field with the words “DON’T TREAD ON ME,” creating one of the most enduring symbols of American resolve.
This beautifully detailed copper round offers a striking interpretation of that historic imagery. The obverse features a vigilant rattlesnake rising from its coils, poised and ready to strike. A field of stars surrounds the serpent, while the commanding inscription “DON’T TREAD ON ME” follows the upper border. The phrase “LIVE FREE OR DIE” anchors the design below, reinforcing its unmistakable message of personal liberty, courage, and resistance to oppression.
The reverse bears the classic Intaglio Mint design, featuring the mint’s distinctive columned “M” emblem surrounded by ornamental detailing. The inscriptions identify the piece as containing one AVDP ounce of .999 fine copper and recognize Intaglio Mint’s founding in 2010.
Struck in-house by Intaglio Mint from one full AVDP ounce of .999 fine copper, this 39mm round combines meaningful American symbolism with exceptional engraving and striking detail. It is an ideal addition to any collection centered on American history, constitutional liberty, patriotic art, or finely crafted copper rounds.
Specifications:
- Metal: .999 Fine Copper
- Weight: 1 AVDP Ounce
- Diameter: 39mm
- Edge: Reeded
- Finish: Brilliant Uncirculated
- Mint: Intaglio Mint
- Country of Manufacture: United States
Interesting Facts:
- The rattlesnake appeared as an American symbol before the Revolutionary War and was admired because it was native to the Americas.
- Benjamin Franklin famously used a divided snake in his 1754 “Join, or Die” political cartoon—one of the earliest widely recognized symbols of colonial unity.
- The rattlesnake was viewed as an appropriate emblem because it does not seek conflict, gives a warning before striking, and fiercely defends itself when threatened.
- Colonel Christopher Gadsden designed the historic yellow flag bearing the coiled rattlesnake and “DON’T TREAD ON ME” motto in 1775.
- The Gadsden flag was presented to Commodore Esek Hopkins, the first commander in chief of the Continental Navy.
- “Live Free or Die” originated in a toast written by Revolutionary War General John Stark in 1809 and later became the official motto of New Hampshire.
Why Collect This Piece?
The “Don’t Tread on Me” rattlesnake remains one of the most recognizable images in American history. More than two centuries after its creation, its warning continues to represent independence, personal freedom, vigilance, and the willingness to defend one’s rights.
With its dramatic central artwork, powerful inscriptions, and substantial one-ounce copper format, this round is equally suited for patriotic collections, historical displays, and meaningful gifts. It is an attractive and affordable tribute to the independent spirit upon which the United States was founded.
