Feuchtwanger’s Cent – 1 AVDP Oz .999 Fine Copper Round
U.S. Historical Tribute Collection
A Forgotten Experiment in American Coinage.
Long before modern U.S. coinage was standardized, innovators sought alternative metals and compositions to meet the nation’s growing monetary needs. Among them was Dr. Lewis Feuchtwanger, whose experimental cent represents one of the most fascinating and overlooked chapters in early American numismatic history.
The obverse of this tribute features a faithful rendering inspired by Feuchtwanger’s 1837 cent, depicting an eagle in dynamic form with wings partially spread, grasping a serpent beneath it. The date 1837 appears below, marking the year of this bold monetary experiment. The imagery reflects both classical influence and the evolving identity of early American coinage during a period of economic uncertainty and innovation.
The reverse showcases a clean and elegant composition bearing the inscription “FEUCHTWANGER’S COMPOSITION” surrounding a laurel wreath, with “ONE OUNCE .999 FINE COPPER” at the center. This design pays homage to Feuchtwanger’s original intent—introducing a new coinage metal known as “German silver,” an alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc proposed as a cost-effective alternative to traditional precious metal coinage.
Although Feuchtwanger’s composition was never officially adopted by the United States Mint, his work represents an important moment in the evolution of American currency. His proposals and privately issued patterns highlighted the need for more practical coinage solutions and helped influence later developments in U.S. minting practices.
Struck in one avoirdupois ounce of .999 fine copper, this beautifully detailed round captures the spirit of early American innovation, rendered in rich copper tones with deep intaglio detail.
The Feuchtwanger’s Cent Tribute stands as a reminder of the experimental roots of U.S. coinage—a piece of history that paved the way for the coins we know today.
Product Specifications
- Collection: U.S. Historical Tribute Collection
- Design: Feuchtwanger’s Cent (1837 Tribute)
- Metal: .999 Fine Copper
- Weight: 1 AVDP Ounce
- Diameter: 39 mm
- Mint: Intaglio Mint
- Edge: Reeded
