1851 Cent Pattern - J-127, Original

Coin Details

Auction Record

$5,523 MS65 05-26-2022 Legend Rare Coin Auctions

Description

Judd-127 (Pollock-149, Low R.6) is a fascinating experimental cent produced during a period when Congress was actively seeking alternatives to the cumbersome large copper cent. This original striking features a perforated annular (ring-shaped) billon planchet containing one-tenth silver, with a plain edge and medallic alignment. The obverse carries the inscription CENT above and ONE TENTH SILVER below the central perforation, while the reverse displays an open wreath surrounded by UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. This particular specimen is struck in white metal. The concept behind the ring cent was straightforward: by using a billon alloy with a small silver content, the Mint could produce a smaller coin that retained its face value in metal content, while the central hole ensured it could not be confused with the similarly sized dime. Congressman Sam F. Vinton introduced legislation in 1849 proposing exactly this kind of reduced-size cent. However, the annular design proved impractical in production, particularly during the ejection of struck coins from the dies. Ultimately, the Flying Eagle cent was chosen as the replacement for the large cent in 1857.