Colonial America

In the 17th and 18th centuries, Britain fought with other European powers for territorial control of North America, but tended to neglect the economic needs of her colonies. In 1652, the Massachusetts Bay Colony began striking its own silver shillings. Unfortunately, the minimalist design allowed people to clip the edges for bullion and they were soon replaced by willow, oak and pine tree designs. British businessmen and some colonial governors also produced tokens and copper coins with royal permission. Many of these were rejected by colonists, who preferred Spanish silver.