1855 Proof Cent Pattern - J-174

Coin Details

Description

Cataloged as Judd-174 and part of the broader 1855 Flying Eagle cent experimental series, this pattern was struck in a nickel-based alloy with a plain edge. The obverse carries the Flying Eagle motif that Mint Engraver James B. Longacre adapted from the Gobrecht/Peale eagle design, with thirteen stars encircling the central device and the date 1855 below. The reverse presents ONE CENT within a wreath and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around the border, following the standard layout used across the 1855 cent pattern family. This alloy variant represents one of several metallic compositions the Philadelphia Mint tested as it worked toward replacing the large copper cent with a smaller, more economical denomination. The nickel-content alloy gave the coins a distinctive lighter color compared to the copper and bronze variants in the series, foreshadowing the copper-nickel composition that would ultimately be adopted for the 1856-1858 Flying Eagle cents. Both originals and restrikes are known for this variety, and the piece remains quite scarce.