1855 Proof Cent Pattern - J-169

Coin Details

Auction Record

Description

Judd-169, Pollock-194, rated R.7. This pattern presents the flying eagle design in oroide — a gold-colored alloy of copper and tin that gives the coin a striking brass-like appearance quite unlike any of its copper or bronze counterparts. The obverse displays a large eagle in flight surrounded by thirteen stars with the date 1855, while the reverse features the denomination ONE CENT enclosed within a thick laurel wreath, with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around the outer border. The edge is plain. The choice of oroide was experimental, testing whether a gold-toned alloy might serve as an alternative coinage metal, though the visual similarity to gold would have caused public confusion and made this composition impractical for circulation. USPatterns has confirmed a single example, which tested as 81% copper, 15% tin and 4% zinc. Reference data: struck in oroide with a plain edge, rated R-7. Catalogued as Judd-169, Pollock-194, A/W 196, Taxay EP194. these may be restrikes.

Rarity Notes

R-7 (USPatterns.com)

Cross References

Judd-169; Pollock-194; Adams-Woodin 196; Taxay EP194