1855 Proof Cent Pattern - J-168, Restrike

Coin Details

Auction Record

$4,888 PR65 02-07-2000 Superior Galleries

Description

Judd-168, Pollock-193, rated R.4. A restrike of the refined flying eagle cent pattern, produced from the same dies as the original J-168 at a later date. The Gobrecht-Peale eagle in upward flight on the obverse, the large cent-style reverse, the intermediate diameter, and the bronze composition with plain edge are all identical to the original. What differentiates this restrike is the die state, which may show progression from the original strikings — experienced numismatists look for subtle changes in die surface quality, possible rust pitting, or loss of fine detail in the eagle's feathers and the wreath's leaves. The relative abundance of both original and restrike J-168 specimens (R.4) indicates this was among the more popular patterns with the collector community that drove restrike production, owing to its close visual relationship to the soon-to-be-regular-issue Flying Eagle cent.