United States of America Rose Pattern 800 Silver Coin Token
Silver Coin/Token · Likely a private mint or souvenir manufacturer rather than a major silversmith house like Tiffany. It bears a generic 'United States of America' inscription common on commemorative tokens.
Pattern: Rose of America commemorative pattern; features a central rose bud within a shield or cartouche.
Type
Silver Coin/Token
Maker
Likely a private mint or souvenir manufacturer rather than a major silversmith house like Tiffany. It bears a generic 'United States of America' inscription common on commemorative tokens.
Material
Likely 800 Silver or Silver-Plated Nickel. The heavy tarnish and copper-toned oxidation visible suggest a lower silver content (continental standard .800) or silver-plated base metal rather than .925 sterling.
Dimensions
Approximately 18-20mm in diameter, similar to a U.S. Penny or Dime. Estimated weight between 2.5 to 3.5 grams.
Description
This item is a commemorative silver-toned token featuring the national floral emblem of the United States, the Rose (designated in 1986). The design features a centered rose bloom set within a stylized crest, encircled by the country name and the date 2001. It represents a piece of modern Americana numismatists often categorize as a 'medalette.'
Key Features
Central rose bud motif, shield-shaped frame, 2001 date, and circular 'United States of America' legend. The small scale suggests it may have been from a 'Year to Remember' set.
Material & Composition
Likely 800 Silver or Silver-Plated Nickel. The heavy tarnish and copper-toned oxidation visible suggest a lower silver content (continental standard .800) or silver-plated base metal rather than .925 sterling.
Finish & Decoration
Aged patina with recessed relief. Features a central embossed rose motif, a decorative shield/crest, and circular lettering. The surface is currently oxidized (tarnished) to a dark brownish-gold hue.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraved 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and '2001' on the outer rim. No visible 'Sterling' or '925' mark in the image; further inspection of the reverse or edge is needed for purity hallmarks.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/die-pressed. This is a mass-produced numismatic item produced using high-pressure dies to stamp the relief into a metal planchet.
Functional Features
Primarily decorative or commemorative. No functional hinges or spouts; intended for collection, pocket carry as a 'lucky charm,' or jewelry mounting.
Handle & Grip Details
None; this is a flat, disk-shaped coin/token.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial die-striking. The detail in the rose petals shows decent relief, though it lacks the hand-chased refinement found in antique silver hollowware.
Authentication Indicators
Lettering style is consistent with early 2000s minting. The wear pattern is consistent with handheld use or storage in a non-neutral environment. Precise weighting and an acid or XRF test would be required to confirm if it is solid .800/.925 silver or plated.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; likely produced by a private mint specializing in tokens, medals, and silver rounds for the gift market.
Era & Period
Modern Era; dated 2001. Designed with a neo-classical or traditionalist aesthetic common in American numismatic souvenirs.
Age Estimate
Produced in 2001.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the turn-of-the-millennium trend for collecting commemorative 'silver rounds' and tokens as small-scale investments or sentimental keepsakes.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair. The piece shows significant surface oxidation and 'toning.' There are no deep gouges, but the high points of the rose design show light circulation wear. Tarnish is heavy, obscuring the natural silver luster.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00 USD. Value is largely dictated by silver melt weight rather than numismatic rarity, unless identifiable as a specific rare mint error.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth first. If silver purity is confirmed, use a mild silver polish like Wright’s Silver Cream. Avoid harsh abrasives that could strip plating if the item is not solid silver.
Similar Pieces
Standard U.S. Mint Silver Proof Dimes (higher purity/value), Franklin Mint Rose medals, or themed silver rounds from Northwest Territorial Mint (different sizes).
Interesting Facts
The rose was officially made the national flower of the U.S. by President Ronald Reagan in 1986. Commemorative coins like this were popular gifts for births and anniversaries in the year 2001.