Chalmers threepence

Date1783

Struck by John Chalmers

Engraver Thomas Sparrow

OriginAmerica, Maryland, Annapolis

MediumSilver

DimensionsDiameter: 13.5 mm Weight: 14.2 grains

Credit LineGift of the Lasser Family

Object number2004-8,38

Label TextFilling a local need for small change, two Annapolis silversmiths, John Chalmers and Thomas Sparrow, teamed up to produce a series of uniquely designed pieces. In the long history of American coins, these are the first pieces to have the name and location of the private issuer in the legends.

Chalmers' diminutive threepence coins carry the same emblem of two clasped hands on the obverse that the larger shillings bear, and a sprig within a wreath on the reverse.

Breen #1018