1850 Proof Cent Pattern - J-124b

Coin Details

Auction Record

$5,463 MS63 03-07-2006 R.M. Smythe

Description

Judd-124B, Pollock-140. Another compositional variant in the 1850 annular cent pattern series, this piece continues the Mint's methodical exploration of alternative alloys for a reduced-size cent. Struck with a plain edge, it belongs to the same design family as Judd-124 and its related varieties, all sharing the simple text-only layout that prioritized functional testing over aesthetic refinement. The existence of multiple alloy variants under closely related Judd numbers demonstrates the thoroughness of the Mint's approach to the cent reduction problem. By producing identical designs in different metals, officials could directly compare how each alloy performed in terms of striking quality, wear resistance, and visual distinction from other denominations. This systematic experimentation during 1849-1850 would ultimately inform the decisions leading to the copper-nickel Flying Eagle cent of 1857 and the subsequent bronze Indian Head cent of 1864.