In this episode of the Cabbage Coins podcast, host Tony Gryckiewicz shares his experiences from the recent FUN show, where he engaged with collectors and discussed the fascinating world of chop marked coins with expert Taylor Leverage. Taylor, the author of "By Weight, Not By Coyne," dives deep into the history and significance of chop marks, which were used by Chinese merchants to validate the silver content of foreign coins. The conversation explores various examples of chop marked coins, their grading, and the historical context behind their use in trade, particularly between the U.S. and China during the 19th century.

The discussion also touches on the broader implications of silver trade, including the impact of opium on the Chinese economy and the geopolitical dynamics of the time. Taylor shares insights on how chop marks can affect the value of coins, the challenges of authenticating them, and the vibrant community of collectors dedicated to this niche. The episode is rich with historical anecdotes and practical advice for collectors, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in numismatics and the stories behind the coins they collect.

Where to find Tony and Cabbage Coins:
https://cabbagecoins.com/
Email: [email protected]
IG: @cabbage_coins

Special Guest: W. Taylor Leverage, Author of:
By Weight, Not By Coyne: An Introduction to Chopmarked Coins
Available at Amazon.com 
https://a.co/d/9OpQrpS

Connect with Taylor on Instagram: @isthisapancake

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Cabbage Coins Podcast
01:38 The Fun Show Experience
02:28 Introducing Chop Mark Coins
04:12 Understanding Chop Marks
09:38 Historical Context of Trade Dollars
11:52 The Importance of Trade with China
15:38 The 1859 S Dollar and Its Significance
20:09 Rare Drape Bust Dollars with Chop Marks
23:34 Engaging with the Chop Mark Community
25:59 The International History of Coins
27:50 The Journey of Coins: A Historical Perspective
28:46 Shipwreck Cobs and Their Unique Stories
30:39 The Dark History of Silver Trade in China
33:41 Economic Implications of Silver Demand
35:07 Chop Marks: Understanding Their Significance
40:19 Testing Coins: The Role of Chop Marks
43:31 Rare Coins and Their Unique Designs
46:00 Counter Stamps vs. Chop Marks: A Distinction
50:39 Researching Numismatic History: Insights from the Author

Intro Music - "Obverse Fields" by Timothy Gryckiewicz