1855 Cent Pattern - J-172

Coin Details

Description

Judd-172, Pollock-197, continues the 1855 Flying Eagle cent pattern series with another die variety or compositional variant. The obverse retains the eagle in flight motif that had been under development since 1854, surrounded by stars and dated 1855. The reverse displays the denomination ONE CENT within the standard wreath. This variety's specific distinguishing features — whether in die characteristics, alloy composition, or edge treatment — earned it a separate Judd catalog number, preserving the granular record of the Mint's experimental process. The careful documentation of each variant by Dr. J. Hewitt Judd and subsequent researchers has created an invaluable reference for understanding how the United States Mint transitioned from concept to production coin. The copper-nickel alloy chosen for most 1855 cent patterns (88% copper, 12% nickel) would prove to be one of the most consequential decisions in American coinage history. This formulation produced a hard-wearing coin with a distinctive light color that resisted tarnishing far better than pure copper. The alloy would serve as the standard for the cent from 1857 through 1864, and after a wartime interlude with bronze, copper-nickel would return in 1865 for the three-cent piece and remain a cornerstone of American coinage composition to the present day. Each 1855 cent pattern that survives is thus a tangible link to the moment when this important metallurgical decision was being made.

Rarity Notes

R.6 to R.7. Approximately 10-15 specimens known.

Cross References

Judd-172; Pollock-197