1855 Proof Cent Pattern - P-195

Coin Details

Description

Pollock-195 is an 1855 Flying Eagle cent pattern struck in a distinctive alloy composition, representing one of the Mint's systematic tests of different metals for the proposed small cent. The obverse features the iconic Flying Eagle design by James B. Longacre, adapted from Christian Gobrecht's eagle motif, with a long-necked eagle in flight facing left surrounded by thirteen stars and the date 1855 below. The reverse displays a wreath enclosing "ONE CENT" with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" around the periphery. The 1855 Flying Eagle patterns bridge the gap between the large-diameter 1854 experiments and the eventual adoption of the small-diameter copper-nickel cent in 1857. These patterns were produced in limited quantities for evaluation by Mint officials and members of Congress as part of the campaign to authorize the new denomination. The Pollock numbering system sometimes groups varieties differently than the Judd system, with P-195 representing a specific die state or alloy variant within the broader 1855 Flying Eagle pattern series. These pieces are highly prized by pattern collectors for their role in the evolution of American small cent coinage.

Rarity Notes

R.7. Fewer than 10 examples exist.

Cross References

Judd-170