Chalmers Silver Basic Set (1783)

In 1783, John Chalmers issued three denominations of small silver coins (threepence, sixpence, and shilling) to provide small change for residents of Annapolis, Maryland and the surrounding areas. A common theme among all the coins is a pair of hands clasped in friendship. Other designs include a pair of birds fighting over a worm, a Jerusalem cross, and thirteen rings surrounding a liberty cap. Although most silver colonial coins are rare, Chalmers’ coins are relatively affordable. Putting together this three-coin set can be both fun and challenging.