1783 Chalmers Shilling, Short Worm XF45 PCGS

Breen-1011, W-1785, This pleasing example displays warm, even, pinkish-gray patina on both sides. The side with the birds is expertly centered and overall boldly defined, while the other side of the coin is a bit tight to the left border, yet still possesses more or less bold detail throughout the design. Several tiny planchet voids are seen on each side with close examination, but are mentioned for accuracy.

Annapolis, Maryland silversmith John Chalmers produced a series of silver coins in 1783 as a service to those looking to exchange the fractional parts of Spanish dollars that were common in circulation at the time. While it was customary to cut these Spanish dollars into halves, quarters and eighths, some unscrupulous individuals attempted to pass off smaller, underweight portions to unwary patrons. Chalmers issued threepence, sixpence and shillings in exchange for fractional Spanish pieces, charging a commission for the exchange. Given that they are the most frequently encountered Chalmers coins in today's market, the bird type shillings were undoubtedly issued in the greatest quantity. On the other hand, and the present sale notwithstanding, all Chalmers coins are very scarce to rare in an absolute sense. The present Choice XF quality example is sure to be of great interest to colonial era type collectors seeking a representative of this privately issued series. Listed on page 53 of the 2018 Guide Book. (PCGS 596)