The Continental Dollar, A Journey of Discovery, with�a foreword by Leonard Augsburger, takes a fresh look at the legendary 1776 pieces associated with Continental Currency and Benjamin Franklin. In this first edition, researcher and collector Robert Rodriguez combines historical research with statistical analysis, experimental minting, metallurgy, and advanced X-ray micro-diffraction conducted at Argonne National Laboratory.
Examining all four known silver examples, the study presents new evidence about their composition, manufacture, and possible origins�including indications of underlying Spanish colonial host coins. Richly illustrated with photographs, diagrams, charts, and technical findings, the book brings together perspectives from numismatics, physics, and minting to explore whether the Continental Dollar was intended as a coin, medal, or something else entirely.
Published for America�s 250th Anniversary, this compelling blend of scientific investigation, historical research, and numismatic detective work offers collectors a deeper look at one of early America�s most enduring mysteries.�