The Twenty Cent Piece, minted from 1875 to 1878, was introduced to provide a convenient small denomination coin that could bridge the gap between the dime and the quarter. Despite its short production period, the Twenty Cent Piece played a unique role in American coinage history. Its design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse, reflects the intricate artistry of the era. The coin’s quick discontinuation was due to its similarity in size and appearance to the quarter, which led to confusion in everyday transactions. Nevertheless, the Twenty Cent Piece remains a fascinating and sought-after collector’s item, embodying a distinct chapter in the evolution of U.S. coinage.
Why it Started
The Twenty Cent Piece was introduced in 1875 as a response to a need for a small denomination coin that would facilitate everyday transactions, particularly in the Western United States. At the time, there was a significant shortage of small change, which hindered commerce and daily trade. The existing coinage system relied heavily on the dime and the quarter, but the gap between these denominations created a need for a coin that could offer more flexibility in making change. Additionally, the introduction of the Twenty Cent Piece aimed to compete with the widely circulated Spanish bits, which were valued at 12.5 cents. By providing a coin valued at twenty cents, the U.S. Mint sought to streamline transactions and reduce dependence on foreign currency, thus reinforcing the use of American coinage.
Why it Ended
The minting of the Twenty Cent Piece was discontinued in 1878, just three years after its introduction, due to widespread confusion and practical issues. The coin’s size and design closely resembled that of the quarter, leading to frequent mix-ups in everyday transactions. This similarity caused frustration among the public and merchants alike, as it complicated the process of making change and conducting business efficiently. Additionally, the coin failed to gain significant acceptance and usage, making its continued production economically unviable. As a result, the U.S. Mint decided to halt the production of the Twenty Cent Piece, leaving it as a brief but intriguing chapter in the history of American coinage.
| Years | Species | Front | Back |
| 1875-1878 | Liberty Seated |  |  |