1849 Proof Three Cent Pattern - J-111a

Coin Details

Description

Judd-111a is the coin silver version of the earliest three-cent pattern, one of a series of experimental pieces produced in 1849 as Congress debated authorizing a three-cent denomination to facilitate purchase of the new three-cent postage stamps introduced that year. The obverse borrows the Seated Liberty design from the regular-issue half dime, featuring Liberty seated on a rock with her right hand resting on a shield. The reverse is strikingly plain, displaying only the large numeral "3" in the center with no additional ornamentation, wreath, or legend. While J-111 was struck in billon (an alloy of approximately 50% silver and 50% copper), J-111a uses standard coin silver (90% silver, 10% copper), representing a higher-purity alternative being tested for the proposed denomination. These hastily assembled muled patterns were created by pairing an existing half dime obverse die with a simple reverse die, reflecting the urgency of the postage reform debate rather than a polished design proposal.

Rarity Notes

R.7. Very rare; approximately 4-7 examples known.

Cross References

Pollock-125a