1849 Dollar Pattern - J-115

Coin Details

Auction Record

$105,000 MS62 01-14-2024 Heritage Auctions

Description

Judd-115, Pollock-130, High R.7. This gold dollar pattern takes an unusual approach to coin design, featuring a square central perforation -- a concept the Mint explored for small-denomination coins during this period. The obverse displays the inscription 1.DOLLAR. 1849 arranged around the central opening, while the reverse carries a laurel wreath encircling the perforation with U. STATES OF AMERICA in the outer field. Struck in gold with a plain edge. These patterns are particularly fascinating because each piece was individually hand-engraved by Chief Engraver James Barton Longacre rather than struck from standard dies, giving every surviving example its own distinct character. The gold content varies considerably from specimen to specimen, with fineness ranging from 50% to 100% according to the Judd reference. This experimental approach to the gold dollar reflects the intense period of design exploration at the Philadelphia Mint in 1849, as Congress had just authorized the new denomination and Longacre was tasked with developing a practical design for what would become the smallest gold coin in regular American production.