Coins with Edge Lettering: A Unique Feature in Numismatics

In a historic first, the Proof American Silver Eagles have been introduced with edge lettering. This special design was crafted to honor the 30th anniversary of the American Silver Eagle. The 2016 Proof edition features incused lettering along the coin’s edge—an area typically marked with reeded lines. While this is a rare occurrence today, the use of edge lettering on coins dates back to some of the earliest coins produced in the United States. In fact, several modern coins, such as the Presidential $1 and Native American $1 coins, continue to showcase this intriguing detail.

Historic Coins with Edge Lettering

Flowing Hair Half Dollar and Dollar (1794)

The Flowing Hair series, introduced in 1794, includes both half dollar and dollar denominations. Designed by Robert Scot, the first Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, these coins featured ornate edge inscriptions. The Half Dollar was inscribed with “FIFTY CENTS OR A HALF DOLLAR”, while the Dollar bore the inscription “HUNDRED CENTS ONE DOLLAR OR UNIT”, with decorative elements separating the phrases.

Draped Bust Half Dollar and Dollar (1796)

Launched in 1796, the Draped Bust series was another work of Robert Scot, inspired by a portrait by Gilbert Stuart. These coins followed the edge inscription style of their predecessors. The Half Dollar carried the text “FIFTY CENTS OR A HALF DOLLAR”, and the Dollar featured “HUNDRED CENTS ONE DOLLAR OR UNIT”, both adorned with decorative separators. Two reverse designs were used—the small eagle and the heraldic eagle—but the edge inscriptions remained consistent.

Capped Bust Half Dollar (1807–1836)

Introduced in 1807, the Capped Bust Half Dollar was the creation of John Reich, the second engraver at the U.S. Mint. These coins initially displayed the phrase “FIFTY CENTS OR HALF A DOLLAR” on the edge. Between 1814 and 1831, a star symbol was inserted between “FIFTY” and “DOLLAR.” From 1832 to 1836, vertical lines were used as separators. After 1836, edge lettering was discontinued on this series in favor of reeded edges.

Modern U.S. Coins Featuring Edge Lettering

Presidential $1 Coins (2007 Onwards)

The Presidential $1 Coin Program, which began in 2007, introduced edge lettering that included the year of minting, mint mark, “E PLURIBUS UNUM”, and initially, “IN GOD WE TRUST.” In 2007, these inscriptions were divided by dots. By 2008, another dot was added to separate the date/mint mark from the motto. Due to confusion in 2009—where the absence of “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the edge caused public concern—the phrase was moved to the obverse. That year, the separators were changed to stars. A notable minting error during this period resulted in some coins missing edge inscriptions entirely, leaving them with smooth edges.

Native American $1 Coins (2009 Onwards)

Similar to the Presidential coins, the Native American dollar series, launched in 2009, features edge lettering that includes the date, mint mark, and “E PLURIBUS UNUM”, separated by stars. The obverse displays a static portrait of Sacagawea with her infant son Pompey, designed by Glenna Goodacre, while the reverse design varies annually to highlight Native American contributions.

30th Anniversary Proof American Silver Eagles (2016)

Initially introduced in 1986, the American Silver Eagle marked its 30th anniversary in 2016 with a special edition Proof coin. This version was distinct from the usual reeded-edge design—featuring smooth edges with the inscription “30th ANNIVERSARY” engraved in italics. In contrast, the bullion version issued earlier retained the traditional reeded edge. Upon release in September, the Proof edition quickly gained popularity among collectors due to its unique commemorative feature.

Conclusion

While not common, edge lettering remains a fascinating and historically rich element in U.S. coinage. From the early days of the Flowing Hair and Draped Bust coins to modern innovations like the 30th Anniversary Silver Eagles, edge inscriptions add depth, elegance, and storytelling to American numismatics.