1853 Proof Cent Pattern - J-149

Coin Details

Auction Record

$7,050 PR64 01-06-2016 Heritage Auctions

Description

Judd-149, Pollock-178, rated High R.6. Produced during the early 1850s as the Mint explored alternatives to the cumbersome large copper cent, this pattern pairs an obverse die taken directly from the regular-issue 1853 Liberty Head quarter eagle with a purpose-made reverse featuring a wreath surrounding the widely spaced denomination ONE / CENT. The piece is struck in a white metal alloy composed of 40% nickel, 40% copper, and 20% zinc, with a reeded edge. This same die combination was used for the related Judd-150 and Judd-151 varieties, each employing a different proportion of the same three constituent metals — an indication that the Mint was methodically testing various formulations to find the ideal balance of durability, appearance, and cost for a smaller-format cent. The use of quarter eagle dies for the obverse was a practical shortcut that gave these patterns the approximate diameter sought for the proposed small cent.