1. Gold Coins:
- Gold was reserved for higher-denomination coins due to its high value.
- Gold sovereign: widely circulated in the United Kingdom, made of 22-karat gold (91.67% pure gold).
- Double eagle (US $20 gold piece): composed of 90% gold and 10% copper alloy, known for its impressive weight and size.
2. Silver Coins:
- Silver was extensively used for smaller denomination coins.
- US silver dollar: minted from 90% silver and 10% copper, it became a popular trade coin internationally.
- British silver shilling: composed of 92.5% silver, it gained widespread acceptance within the British Empire and beyond.
3. Copper Coins:
- Copper was primarily employed for low-value coins.
- US copper cent (also known as "penny"): made from 95% copper and 5% tin or zinc, it was widely circulated in the 1800s
- British copper penny: Consisting of 95% copper and 4% tin or zinc, it played a significant role in daily transactions.