1852 Proof Dollar Pattern - J-147, Gilt

Coin Details

Auction Record

$10,200 PR65 05-08-2022 Heritage Auctions

Description

This gilt variant of Judd-147 (Pollock-175, Low R.7) shares the same annular design and large central perforation as the standard copper striking but has been gold-plated to simulate the appearance of a gold coin. The wreath and scrollwork decoration occupy the limited surface area available on the ring-shaped planchet. Struck in copper with a plain edge and then gilt. The gilding process allowed Mint officials and Congressional reviewers to evaluate how the pattern would look in its intended gold form without expending precious metal on every trial piece. A gilt copper striking could convey the visual impression of a gold annular dollar at a fraction of the cost, making it a practical tool for presentations and demonstrations. Like its unplated copper counterpart, this variety highlights the Mint's sustained effort during the early 1850s to find a workable larger-format gold dollar before the problem was ultimately resolved through other means.