1858 Cent Pattern - J-208

Coin Details

Auction Record

Description

Cataloged as Judd-208 (Pollock-253, 254, 259, 261) with rarity ratings ranging from R.4 to R.7 depending on the specific die variety, this is the popular "transitional" 1858 cent pattern that combines the designs of two different years. The obverse features the Indian Head portrait by James Barton Longacre that would not officially debut until 1859, while the reverse carries the laurel wreath that was also adopted for the 1859 cent — but the date reads 1858, a year when only the Flying Eagle design was used for circulation strikes. This die variety is identified by its five leaf clusters in the wreath and centered date placement. Struck in copper-nickel with a plain edge, the piece represents a bridge between the outgoing Flying Eagle series and the incoming Indian Head design. USPatterns rates its four Pollock varieties from R-4 (centered date, leaves in clusters of five) to R-7. These transitional cents are avidly collected by both Indian Head cent enthusiasts and pattern specialists. Reference data: struck in copper-nickel with a plain edge, rated R-7. Catalogued as Judd-208, Pollock-261, A/W 264, Taxay EP253. Centered date, laurel wreath with 6 leaves.

Rarity Notes

R-4 to R-7 by die variety (USPatterns.com)

Cross References

Judd-208; Pollock-253, 254, 259, 261; Adams-Woodin 264; Taxay EP253