1783 Washington & Independence - Draped Bust Button Cent

Coin Details

Auction Record

$2,880 • MS65 BN • 01-2014 • Heritage Auctions

Description

Identified by the small but distinctive button on Washington's coat front, this 1783 Washington & Independence cent (Baker 2, Musante GW-104, Whitman 10310) is the most commonly available variety in the 1783 series. The button appears as a small raised dot beneath the neckline, the primary diagnostic separating this from the No Button type (Baker 3 / GW-105). The obverse features Washington's draped bust with WASHINGTON & INDEPENDENCE; the reverse shows a wreath enclosing ONE CENT. These British-manufactured tokens were produced in Birmingham, England, capitalizing on Washington's fame in both America and Europe — his celebrity transcended national boundaries. The WASHINGTON & INDEPENDENCE legend reflects the era's association of Washington with American self-governance. Despite being "common for the type," the Baker 2 Button variety is a coin of genuine historical interest and an affordable entry point for building a Washington token collection. Birmingham's steam-powered presses produced consistent quality tokens in large numbers for export. These copper tokens filled the need for small-denomination coins the new federal mint could not yet supply in adequate quantities.

Rarity Notes

Common for the type. The most available Washington & Independence variety.

Cross References

Baker 2; Musante GW-104; Whitman 10310