(1856) Proof Cent Pattern - J-178

Coin Details

Auction Record

Description

Judd-178 is an 1856 Flying Eagle cent pattern struck in copper-nickel (88% copper, 12% nickel) with a plain edge, representing the penultimate stage of the Mint's small cent experiments before the design was adopted for regular coinage in 1857. The obverse shows the flying eagle alone, with no date or legend. The reverse displays an agricultural wreath composed of corn, wheat, cotton, and tobacco — representing America's major agricultural products from both Northern and Southern states — enclosing the denomination "ONE CENT." This wreath design would be carried forward to the regular-issue 1857-1858 Flying Eagle cents. Unlike the earlier 1854-1855 "Large Flying Eagle" experiments, J-178 was struck on the smaller 19mm planchet that would become standard, making it essentially a trial run of the adopted format. USPatterns can confirm only two of the three or four believed known. Reference data: struck in copper-nickel with a plain edge, rated R-7. Catalogued as Judd-178, Pollock-206, A/W 213, Taxay EP201.

Rarity Notes

R-7 (USPatterns.com)

Cross References

Judd-178; Pollock-206; Adams-Woodin 213; Taxay EP201