Letter from James Pollock, Director of the Mint to S. P. Chase, Secretary of the Treasury

This letter describes in detail the process and effect that the new coins would have in issues such as counterfeiting, devaluation, and cost. It also critiques proposed phrases to be added to the coins, including "God and our Country," "In God we Trust," and "God is our Shield."

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of the United th Philadelphia, Dec 15, 1863. Heml P.bhale see. of the hundry Dear Sir has been received, and I am gratefyed to gind such your letter of the 9 thirst, general coneuend of ferent in relation to the newcoming the cost of the proposed coinage will be less than the mickee cent; and will not exceed of material I lahn 50 in) a one halfcant for the cent coin; and about one cent for the two-cent piece", the cost being de- pendent on the functuations of the market, the new coins will han sufficient intrinsic value for all purposes intended by their comage; and will be a Source of mefal to the government, thus aiding to defray the fenand espences of the minh. they will be expared to no greater risks glounter feiting than any of the copper a nickel coinage of farmer jeais, the character of the coin - the small Excels of legal over denominations intrinsic value in so low- the artistic skill in their execution. - the in - created penalty te for counterfecting, propote. a in the