1786 1/2P Immunis Columbia - Shield Reverse Half Penny

Coin Details

Description

One of several experimental die combinations from the Confederatio series, this 1786 copper pairs an Immunis Columbia obverse — a seated Liberty with IMMUNIS COLUMBIA ("Columbia is Free") — with a shield reverse. Cataloged as Crosby 15-Z and Whitman 5720, it belongs to a group of proposed federal coppers where multiple obverse and reverse dies were mixed and matched to test design concepts. The shield reverse is one of several designs paired with the Immunis Columbia obverse in the Confederatio die combination pool, alongside eagle reverses and other heraldic devices. The "Immunis Columbia" legend carries significant political meaning, declaring American freedom in the Latin educated statesmen recognized as echoing classical republican ideals. The shield represents national defense and unity — imagery later adopted in various forms for official United States coinage. These 1786 Confederatio mulings are very rare, with most surviving examples in institutional collections. Their production has been attributed to various facilities, with some scholars suggesting connections to Machin's Mills or other private minting establishments.

Rarity Notes

Very rare.

Cross References

Crosby 15-Z; Whitman 5720