1836 Proof Two Cent Pattern - J-55b

Coin Details

Description

Cataloged as Judd-55b, this copper-nickel variant of the 1836 two-cent pattern features the same eagle-on-cloud obverse and TWO CENTS reverse design shared across the series, struck with a reeded edge. The choice of copper-nickel as a composition for this particular striking is noteworthy, as the alloy would not be adopted for regular United States coinage until more than two decades later with the introduction of the Indian Head cent in 1859. The existence of this copper-nickel variant raises questions about the Mint's forward-looking experimentation with alternative alloys during the 1830s. While the majority of the 1836 two-cent patterns were struck in billon or copper, this piece demonstrates a broader interest in testing multiple compositions. Whether this specimen is a contemporary striking or a later restrike produced from the original dies remains a subject of discussion among pattern specialists, as the copper-nickel composition could support either attribution.