1851 Proof Cent Pattern - J-127a, Original

Coin Details

Auction Record

$2,350 PR64 06-29-2012 Stack's Bowers

Description

Judd-127a is a composition variant of the original 1851 perforated ring cent pattern, the "a" suffix indicating an off-metal striking from the standard J-127 dies. The obverse displays "CENT" above and "1851" below with ornamental rosettes, and the reverse shows "USA" and "ONE TENTH SILVER," both with the distinctive center perforation that gives ring cents their name. As an original striking (not a restrike), this piece was produced contemporaneously in 1851 as part of the Mint's ongoing experiments with small cent denominations. The perforated format, inspired by the holed coins of China and Japan, was intended to allow a coin of acceptable diameter while reducing the amount of metal required. Original perforated strikings are rarer than the later unperforated restrikes, as fewer were produced during the initial experimental phase. The variant composition indicated by the "a" suffix indicates testing of an alternative alloy beyond the standard billon of J-127.

Rarity Notes

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

Cross References

Pollock-149a