During the 1860’s an increase in trade between China and the United States paved the way for a ‘commercial’ US Trade Dollar that could compete with the silver trade coins used by other countries in the Orient. The new American Trade Dollars with a fineness of 90 percent silver and weighing 27.2 grams were minted for export from 1873. Minted until 1878, they were to become one of the shortest lived of all United States numismatic series.

Explore our Exclusive Trade Dollar Collection inspired by the fascinating coins that travelled the high seas all in the name of trade and commerce.