Hence we may observe, that neither kind of mark alone is suited fora coin in tended to possess durability, and at the same time to be difficult either to imitate or diminish. A combination of both me thods is necessary. If a coin be struck with indentations, or parts depressed be neath the common surface, and in these there be prominent objects or designs not more elevated than that surface, the ge neral advantage, with regard to wear, will approach towards that of the plain surface itself; and the impression will be at least as difficult to imitate, if not more so, than that of a design raised to tally above the common surface. Few coins have been made of this figure. The Chinese coin, of mixed copper, called the cash, is the most remarkable, and per haps the only one of extensive circulation. The late copper coinage of pieces of one and two pennies are of this kind.
To sum up the foregoing conclusions in a few words, we may remark, that, 1. The state is unable (from the natural impracticability of things) to appoint distinct articles of commerce as the circulating mediums of exchange. 2. The
measure of value, or legal tender, ought to consist in the metal which bears the highest price, namely, gold. 3. Coins of silver and copper are required for smbller fractions than the actual subdivisions of We gold coin, but should be optional in the receipt of any larger sums. 4. These last mentioned coins ought to represent a value in gold equal to their own quantity of metal, at the highest (or perhaps me dium) market price, added to the charge of fabrication. 5. No sufficient reason had yet been given to shew that the stand ard of gold coin should be changed, to render it more durable. 6. The best figure of coin is a short cylinder, or flat round plate. And, 7. The distinctive marks or impressions should be made neither altogether hollow, or altogether in relief, but by combination of both forms, so as to leave a flat bearing face en each side.