1854 Proof Cent Pattern - J-158a, Experimental

Coin Details

Description

Judd-158a, Pollock-185. This experimental variant of the J-158 uses the same distinctive die combination — the lathe-reduced 1854 Seated Liberty dollar obverse paired with the 1 CENT oak and acorn wreath reverse — but was struck under experimental conditions on a plain-edge planchet rather than the reeded edge found on the standard J-158. The composition is listed as an alternative alloy formulation, suggesting the Mint was testing yet another metallic recipe from these well-used dies. Weighing approximately 10.89 grams with a diameter of 27.5mm, this piece is closer in size and heft to the contemporary large cent than to the small cent format that would eventually be adopted. Very few examples are known, and the experimental nature of this striking means that individual specimens may show variations in surface quality and strike characteristics.