1855 Proof Cent Pattern - J-172

Coin Details

Auction Record

Description

This 1855 Flying Eagle cent pattern, designated Judd-172 (Pollock-198) and rated Low R.6, features the hooked-neck eagle design on its obverse that would evolve into the 1856-1858 Flying Eagle cent. However, this variant is distinguished by its reverse die, which carries a noticeably smaller wreath than the versions seen on J-167 through J-171. A diagnostic detail helps identify the die pairing: two leaves appear beneath the E in STATES, a reverse also used on the 1854 patterns J-160 to J-164 (USPatterns). Struck in pure copper with a plain edge, J-172 uses a traditional coinage metal, harking back to the composition of the large cents that these patterns were intended to replace. The copper composition gives surviving examples a warm reddish-brown tone, though as noted by specialists, specimens retaining significant original red color are extremely scarce across all 1855 Flying Eagle patterns. Reference data: struck in copper with a plain edge, rated R-6. Catalogued as Judd-172, Pollock-198, Taxay EP187.

Rarity Notes

R-6 (USPatterns.com)

Cross References

Judd-172; Pollock-198; Taxay EP187