1794 Talbot Allum & Lee - Lettered Edge Silver Cent

Coin Details

Description

Struck in silver rather than standard copper, this 1794 Talbot, Allum & Lee cent with lettered edge (Whitman 8610) is a very rare off-metal striking. The New York mercantile firm — principals William Talbot, William Allum, and James Lee — operated an extensive import-export business between New York and the East Indies, and their tokens served as both advertising and practical small-denomination currency. The obverse features a standing Commerce figure holding a ship's mast, while the reverse depicts a sailing vessel. At 29 mm with a lettered edge (PCGS #80635), the silver composition suggests a presentation strike, die trial, or special collector issue rather than circulation piece, as silver's intrinsic value far exceeded the token's cent denomination. Standard copper versions were struck at the Boulton & Watt Soho Mint in Birmingham, and the silver strikings likely originated there as well. Silver examples are substantially rarer than copper, with most in institutional or advanced private collections. The lettered edge carries an inscription further identifying the issuing firm.

Rarity Notes

Very rare. Silver striking.

Cross References

Whitman 8610