1857 Three-Cent Silver Piece — Type 2 Trime
1857 Three-Cent Silver Piece — Type 2 Trime
Own a fascinating piece of early American numismatic history with this 1857 Three-Cent Silver Piece, commonly known as a Trime, struck at the Philadelphia Mint during the years leading up to the American Civil War.
First introduced in 1851, the Three-Cent Silver Piece was created to provide a convenient denomination for everyday transactions, particularly following the reduction of domestic postage rates to three cents. Its unusually small size and distinctive design make it one of the most recognizable minor silver denominations in United States coinage.
Designed by James B. Longacre, the obverse features a six-pointed star containing the Union shield, surrounded by the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. The reverse displays the Roman numeral III within an ornamental C-shaped design, surrounded by thirteen stars.
The 1857 issue belongs to the Type 2 design, produced from 1854 through 1858. This variety features three outlines around the obverse star and an olive sprig and bundle of arrows incorporated into the reverse design.
Struck in 90% silver, the 1857 Three-Cent Silver Piece is a desirable collectible for its unusual denomination, intricate design, and connection to the early development of American coinage.
Product Details
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Denomination: Three Cents ($0.03 USD)
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Year: 1857
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Mint: Philadelphia (No Mint Mark)
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Variety: Type 2 (1854–1858)
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Original Mintage: 1,042,000
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Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
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Weight: 0.75 grams
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Diameter: 14.3 mm
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Actual Silver Weight (ASW): Approximately 0.0217 Troy Ounces
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Designer: James B. Longacre
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Obverse: Six-pointed star containing the Union shield
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Reverse: Roman numeral III within an ornamental C, with olive sprig and arrows
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Edge: Plain
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Condition: See product photographs for the exact coin offered
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Quantity: One individual coin
Please Note: This listing is for one specific 1857 Three-Cent Silver Piece. The coin pictured is the exact coin you will receive.