52
The prices have risen much higher, if the Treasury supply happened to be exhausted.
I mentioned in my Blue Book report 20 per cent as the maximum premium; but I have since been told on good authority that in February 1888, $100 worth of ten-cent pieces sold for $400 and $100 worth of five-cent pieces for $700, the sums being probably required for the year's presents.
6. I would ask that, until further notice, regular supplies may be sent out to arrive as nearly as possible on the following dates:
April 15 $200,000
July 14 $200,000
October 14 $200,000
December 19 $200,000
January 14 $200,000
The December and January shipments are intended to meet the extra demand caused by the Chinese New Year. If the Crown Agent will send out as much coin as will increase the consignment due next April to two hundred thousand dollars here.