1854 Proof Cent Pattern - J-157a, Experimental

Coin Details

Auction Record

$15,525 PR64 09-07-2005 Stack's

Description

Judd-157a is the German silver (argentan) variety of the 1854 Seated Liberty experimental cent, sharing the same die pair as the copper J-156 and the German silver J-157 but distinguished by a different alloy composition. The obverse was produced by the lathe-reduction transfer process from an 1854 Seated Liberty silver dollar die, resulting in a miniaturized rendering with characteristic spiral transfer lines and blurred details. As with the J-156, the crossbar of the 4 in the date is indistinct, causing the date to resemble "1851." The reverse displays the same heavy oak and acorn wreath enclosing "1 CENT." The experimental designation reflects the Mint's systematic testing of different metallic compositions for the proposed small cent, with German silver (an alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc) being one of several candidates evaluated for durability, appearance, and cost-effectiveness. These experiments were driven by Congressional pressure to reduce the size and expense of the copper large cent, which had become unprofitable to produce.

Rarity Notes

High R.7. Approximately 3-5 examples exist.

Cross References

Pollock-185