1854 Proof Cent Pattern - J-162

Coin Details

Auction Record

Description

Judd-162 is the oroide striking of the 1854 Braided Hair or Coronet Head experimental cent pattern. The obverse features the familiar Braided Hair Liberty Head design by Christian Gobrecht, similar to the regular-issue large cent but reduced in diameter and without obverse stars, giving the design a distinctive cameo-like appearance on the smaller planchet. The reverse displays the same wreath design shared by the J-160 and J-161 varieties. Oroide is a gold-colored alloy composed primarily of copper with small amounts of tin and zinc, giving the coin an attractive golden appearance intended to evaluate whether a gold-toned alloy might be suitable for the new small cent denomination. USPatterns recommends metallurgical analysis for any piece thought to be oroide. The Coronet Head cent patterns represent an alternative design direction that was ultimately passed over in favor of the Flying Eagle motif. Reference data: struck in oroide with a plain edge, rated R-7. Catalogued as Judd-162, Pollock-188, A/W 188, Taxay EP180.

Rarity Notes

R-7 (USPatterns.com)

Cross References

Judd-162; Pollock-188; Adams-Woodin 188; Taxay EP180