Why are 1848 French tin patterns so cheap?

I collect 5francs and Ecu d’argent coins and was shocked that the pewter and tin pattern coins from the 1848 design competition are so affordable and can be found in details condition for $100-$500 while I was used to US pattern coins and expecting over 10x that. Is there way higher production of these than is recorded? Or do people just not care about them?

u/cheeseburgercats — 2 months ago

1907 poster I saw at Ellis Island. “The father of our country as seen by his children”

The pro immigrant sentiments of 120years ago wouldn’t fly today but they had the spirit. Also think the choices of who to represent is interesting.

u/cheeseburgercats — 2 months ago