America’s First Coinage
A Declaration of Independence from Boston –
more than a century before the Boston Tea Party!
New England
STRUCK 1652
The original law called for "square," flat silver coins, but none were made.
"America's First Coins" were round with NE at the top and a value or numbers
on the reverse – known today as New England issues. These first shillings bore no dates.
Willow Tree
STRUCK 1653 TO 1660
By October 1652, the original law was amended and the new one called for
coins with double rings, MASATHVSETS between, and a tree at center.
The majority of "America's First Coins" bear the 1652 date.
Pine Tree
STRUCK 1667 TO 1682
The Pine Tree design was the last of the four 1652 designs struck by John Hull.
