1783 MD Threepence Chalmers

Coin Details

Description

The smallest denomination in the Chalmers coinage series, this 1783 silver threepence was issued by John Chalmers, a goldsmith and silversmith operating in Annapolis, Maryland, who produced a short-lived series of silver coins to address the chronic shortage of small-denomination silver currency in the region. At just 14 mm in diameter and weighing approximately 1 gram, the threepence is a remarkably diminutive coin — smaller than many modern earring studs — making it easily lost and contributing to its scarce survival rate. Struck in silver with a plain edge, the obverse features clasped hands (a symbol of unity also found on other Chalmers denominations) while the reverse displays a branch design. Cataloged as Whitman 1375 and Breen 994, with PCGS #592, the Chalmers threepence represents a private coiner's attempt to fill a genuine monetary need in post-Revolutionary Maryland commerce. Chalmers also produced sixpence and shilling denominations, creating a three-tier system of fractional silver currency for local use. The Chalmers coinage is notable as one of the very few American silver coinages produced outside of government authority during the Confederation period, when the lack of a federal mint left individual states and private issuers to address currency needs. The tiny size of the threepence presents particular challenges for collectors, as details are easily worn and specimens are frequently found with significant surface issues. Nevertheless, the Chalmers threepence remains an essential piece for comprehensive collections of post-Revolutionary American numismatics, documenting private enterprise in monetary production during the formative years of the republic.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. The smallest Chalmers denomination.

Cross References

Whitman 1375; Breen 994