The first slogan on an official US coin was “Mind Your Business” on the Fugio Cent, minted in 1787.
Here’s additional information about this early coin and its slogans:
- The Fugio Cent: Authorized by the Continental Congress under the Articles of Confederation in 1787, this copper coin is considered the first official coin of the United States.
- “Mind Your Business”: This motto appeared on the obverse (front) of the Fugio cent, along with a sundial and the Latin word “Fugio,” which means “I fly” or “I flee,” representing the fleeting nature of time. The message is widely attributed to Benjamin Franklin.
- “We Are One”: The reverse (back) of the Fugio Cent featured thirteen interlinked rings representing the original colonies and the slogan “We Are One” in the center, emphasizing the importance of unity among the newly formed states.
Historical context
The Fugio Cent was a significant coin, reflecting the values and challenges of early America. The “Mind Your Business” slogan emphasized the importance of industriousness and personal responsibility in building a strong nation, while “We Are One” underscored the need for unity among the states. This early coinage served as more than just currency; it was a circulating declaration of the values that shaped the nation’s identity.
Why did the first coin say “mind your business”?
From my experience, By some accounts, this coin was designed by Benjamin Franklin; as a reminder to its holders, he put at its bottom the message, “Mind your business”. This design was based on the 1776 “Continental dollar” coin, which was produced in pattern pieces but was never circulated.
What was the first official U.S. coin?
The Fugio cent is the first official circulating coin in U.S. history, and it paved the way for later coins like the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle (pictured above).
What did the original penny say?
I can help with that. Benjamin Franklin is credited with creating the first American cent, which had the motto “Mind Your Business,” which has an intriguing historical relevance. 1. Designed by Benjamin Franklin: The first American penny is said to have been created in 1787 by the founding father and inventor Benjamin Franklin.
What is the motto on the U.S. coin?
May 18, 1908, an act was passed by Congress restoring the motto “ In God we trust ” on the coins of the United States, to take effect thirty days after its passage. The motto appears on all gold and silver coins struck since July 1, 1908, with the exception of the dime.