Contintental Currency Fugio Dollar (Silver Restrike/Commemorative)
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic Commemorative) · Attributed to various mints or private manufacturers specializing in historical restrikes, such as the Franklin Mint or modern specialty numismatic workshops recreating Benjamin Franklin's designs.
Pattern: Fugio / Continental Currency 'We Are One' Pattern
Type
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic Commemorative)
Maker
Attributed to various mints or private manufacturers specializing in historical restrikes, such as the Franklin Mint or modern specialty numismatic workshops recreating Benjamin Franklin's designs.
Material
Likely Silver-plated base metal or modern .925 Sterling Silver restrike; original currency was pewter, silver, or brass. This specific example shows tonal characteristics of a silver-finished commemorative.
Dimensions
Standard crown size, approximately 38mm to 40mm in diameter; if sterling, typically weighs 1 troy ounce (31.1g).
Description
A striking numismatic piece featuring the 'We Are One' reverse of the 1776 Continental Dollar. The design utilizes a central sunburst motif within a circular frame labeled 'AMERICAN CONGRESS', surrounded by thirteen interlocking rings, each inscribed with the name of a colony. It represents the strength of the unified states.
Key Features
Interlocking 13-link chain; 'WE ARE ONE' central motto; sunburst radiance; name of colonies (NH, MASS, RI, CONN, NY, NJ, PENN, DEL, MARY, VIRG, NC, SC, GA).
Material & Composition
Likely Silver-plated base metal or modern .925 Sterling Silver restrike; original currency was pewter, silver, or brass. This specific example shows tonal characteristics of a silver-finished commemorative.
Finish & Decoration
Die-struck with a proof-like or satin finish. Features the iconic 'Continental Congress' sunburst and the 13 interlocking chain links representing the original colonies.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped on the edge or reverse with purity (e.g., '925') if precious metal. The face contains the legend 'AMERICAN CONGRESS' and 'WE ARE ONE'.
Construction Details
Machine die-struck using modern hydraulic presses to emulate the hand-engraved dies of the 18th century.
Functional Features
Commemorative medal or 'round' intended for collection or display within the numismatic flip shown.
Handle & Grip Details
Reeded or smooth edge; no handle (standard coin form).
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-engraving with clear, legible text and sharp definition in the chain links, indicative of professional modern minting standards.
Authentication Indicators
The crispness of the lettering and the uniform surface suggest a modern commemorative rather than an original 1776 pewter specimen. High-relief details are consistent with modern striking techniques.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; modern private mint production following the 1776 Philadelphia design traditions.
Era & Period
Modern Era (Restrike of 1776 Revolution-era design). Original design attributed to Benjamin Franklin at the start of the American Revolution.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960s-1970s (Bicentennial era) or modern 21st-century silver bullion round.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of American independence and the birth of a national currency system. It reflects the Enlightenment ideals of unity and shared destiny.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Housed in a cardboard 2x2 staple-up holder which has protected it from major scratches, though some light surface oxidation or 'toning' is visible.
Value Estimate
$30 - $100 depending on silver content purity; if silver-plated, value is primarily decorative/historical (approx $10-$20).
Care & Maintenance
Keep in the protective PVC-free flip. Do not clean or polish with abrasives as it removes the numismatic 'bloom' and reduces value. Use only a soft microfiber cloth if necessary.
Similar Pieces
Original 1776 Continental Dollars (extremely rare/expensive), pewter Fugio Cents, and 1976 Bicentennial commemorative medals.
Interesting Facts
The design was originally proposed by Benjamin Franklin. The 13 links were a powerful symbol of colonial unity against British rule, a theme Franklin also used in his 'Join, or Die' cartoon.