1851 Proof Cent Pattern - J-131, Restrike

Coin Details

Auction Record

$14,950 PR65 01-07-2008 Stack's

Description

Cataloged as Judd-131 (Pollock-155, R.8), this restrike is struck in copper-nickel with a reeded edge, making it one of the more distinctive variants in the 1851 ring cent family. Like other restrikes in this series, it lacks the central perforation found on original annular strikings. The design is intentionally simple and undated. One side bears the legends CENT and ONE TENTH SILVER, while the other features UNITED STATES OF AMERICA encircling a small wreath. The absence of a date is notable, as some other varieties in the Judd-127 to Judd-131 group do carry the year 1851. The Bowers revision of the Judd reference (2003) rates this variety at R.8, suggesting three or fewer specimens in private hands, though USPatterns.com notes that approximately a half dozen examples are known overall. The copper-nickel composition gives this piece a silvery appearance quite different from the copper and billon versions, representing yet another metallic experiment in the Mint's search for a practical small cent.