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1841 Copper Coin — “Millions for Defence, Not One Cent for Tribute”

1841 Copper Coin — “Millions for Defence, Not One Cent for Tribute”

Updated on April 16, 2026: This has been sold.

Copper token dated 1841.

The obverse depicts the U.S. warship USS Constitution under full sail on a calm sea. The reverse bears the inscription “Millions for Defence” along the border, surrounding the central legend “Not One Cent for Tribute,” framed by floral elements.

The phrase “Millions for defence, not one cent for tribute” emerged during the XYZ Affair, when American envoys refused demands for a bribe from French representatives. While often attributed to Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, the line was delivered in a toast by Congressman Robert Goodloe Harper.

Size: 1.25" in diameter

Shipping: $10. Please allow two weeks for shipping.

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