1854 Proof Cent Pattern - J-157, Experimental

Coin Details

Auction Record

$14,400 • PR67CAM • 09-17-2020 • Heritage Auctions

Description

Judd-157, Pollock-185, rated High R.7. This experimental striking of the J-157 die pair shares the same distinctive design as the standard issue: the lathe-reduced 1854 Seated Liberty dollar obverse, with its characteristically blurred details and partially illegible date, paired with the 1 CENT oak and acorn wreath reverse. Both are struck in the same German silver alloy (61% copper, 27% nickel, 11% zinc) with a reeded edge. The "experimental" designation indicates this piece was produced under different striking conditions or with some variation in the manufacturing process compared to the standard J-157 specimens. Such experimental strikings were part of the Mint's broader effort to evaluate how various alloys and production methods affected the finished product's appearance, durability, and suitability for everyday commerce. Like all J-157 specimens, the obverse displays the telltale concentric lines left by the reducing lathe.