1836 Proof Dollar Pattern - J-59, Restrike

Coin Details

Auction Record

$184,000 PR64 08-11-2010 Heritage Auctions

Description

Cataloged as Judd-59 (Pollock-62), this copper restrike of the celebrated 1836 Gobrecht dollar represents one of the "cabinet coin" restrikes produced at the Philadelphia Mint primarily between 1859 and 1874 for sale to collectors. The obverse features Christian Gobrecht's iconic Seated Liberty design with his name inscribed below the base of the rock upon which Liberty sits, surrounded by stars. The reverse depicts a majestic eagle soaring through a field of 26 stars representing the states of the Union, with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and ONE DOLLAR around the border. Struck in copper with a plain edge, this restrike differs from the original 1836 silver issues (Judd-60) in both composition and the position of the engraver's name. The "Name Below Base" placement identifies this as coming from the modified die created after public criticism of Gobrecht's name appearing too prominently on the original coinage. The obverse die shows evidence of polishing to remove accumulated rust from storage. These copper impressions rank among the most sought-after pattern restrikes, combining Gobrecht's masterful artistry with the allure of an off-metal striking in a historically significant denomination.