Archaeological discoveries

What does a hole drilled in silver dollar coin mean?

A hole drilled in a silver dollar coin usually indicates that the coin has been defaced or damaged, and is no longer considered legal tender. This can occur for various reasons, such as:

1. Counterfeiting Prevention: In the past, some countries would punch holes or drill small indentations into genuine silver coins to prevent counterfeiting. This was done as an additional security measure to distinguish genuine coins from forged ones.

2. Jewelry or Craft Use: Silver dollar coins may be drilled or modified to create jewelry, such as pendants, earrings, or bracelets. This practice was particularly prevalent in the past when precious metals, like silver, were valued for their material worth.

3. Souvenirs or Altered Art: Some individuals may intentionally drill holes in silver dollars as a form of artistic expression or to create unique souvenirs. These modified coins may be kept as collectibles or sold to enthusiasts.

4. Functional Purpose: In rare instances, a hole may be drilled in a silver dollar coin to serve a specific functional purpose. For example, it could be used as a bead in a necklace or attached to a chain as a decorative charm.

It's important to note that defacing or altering currency is generally illegal in many countries, including the United States. Intentionally damaging or modifying coins can result in penalties and may affect their numismatic value.