🪙 The First Coin Approved by George Washington: The 1792 Half Disme

When most people think of George Washington, they think of military leadership, the presidency, or the face on the dollar bill. But few know that he also played a direct role in launching America’s coinage system — and the first coin he helped create still fascinates collectors over 230 years later.

That coin? The 1792 Half Disme (pronounced "deem").

🇺🇸 The Founding of American Coinage

Before 1792, coins in circulation in the U.S. were largely foreign — Spanish, British, and French currency. The new country needed a standardized, reliable coinage system to build trust and independence in trade.

That year, Congress passed the Coinage Act of 1792, which established the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia and laid the groundwork for a national currency. President George Washington, along with Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson, pushed the initiative forward.

🪙 What Is the 1792 Half Disme?

"Disme" (an early spelling of "dime") meant one-tenth of a dollar.
The half disme was valued at 5 cents, making it the earliest small-denomination silver coin officially struck by the U.S. government.
Approximately 1,500 to 2,000 coins were minted — most likely in a temporary facility, since the Philadelphia Mint wasn’t finished yet.

🧑🎨 The Design and Symbolism

Obverse (Front): A symbolic depiction of Liberty facing left with flowing hair, surrounded by stars.
Reverse (Back): An eagle in flight with the words “Half Disme” and “United States of America.”

While George Washington’s portrait was not on the coin (he rejected the idea of monarchy-like imagery), he approved the use of Liberty — a powerful emblem of the new republic.

📜 Did Washington Fund It Himself?

According to records and historical anecdotes, George Washington may have personally donated silver from his own household for the creation of the first half dismes. While not officially confirmed, this detail adds a rich layer of myth and patriotism to the coin’s origin story.

Jefferson even recorded receiving the first strike of the coin on July 13, 1792 — a key date in American numismatic history.

🧠 Why Collectors Prize the 1792 Half Disme

It’s considered the first coin of the United States struck under federal authority.
With such a small mintage and deep historical roots, the 1792 Half Disme is one of the most desirable and rare coins in U.S. history.
Well-preserved examples can sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction.

🏛️ A Legacy That Endures

The 1792 Half Disme represents more than currency — it’s a symbol of America’s economic independence, democratic ideals, and the practical foresight of leaders like George Washington. It’s a cornerstone of early American coinage and a crown jewel in any serious collection.