1854 Proof Cent Pattern - J-158

Coin Details

Auction Record

Description

Judd-158, Pollock-185, rated High R.6. This pattern shares the same unusual obverse as the J-157 — an 1854 Seated Liberty dollar die reduced by a circular lathe to small cent size, producing characteristically blurred devices and visible lathe marks. The reverse features 1 CENT within the oak and acorn wreath. Where the J-158 differs from its predecessor is in composition: it is struck in a simpler two-metal alloy of 40% nickel and 60% copper, without the zinc component present in the J-157's German silver formulation. The edge is reeded. This copper-nickel ratio would prove prescient, as the Mint ultimately settled on a copper-nickel alloy (albeit with different proportions) for the Flying Eagle and Indian Head cents that followed. Reference data: struck in copper-nickel nickel 40%, copper 60% with a reeded edge, rated R-7. Catalogued as Judd-158, Pollock-185, A/W 146, Taxay EP176. metallurgical trial - these should be tested for composition.

Rarity Notes

R-7 (USPatterns.com)

Cross References

Judd-158; Pollock-185; Adams-Woodin 146; Taxay EP176