1858 Cent Pattern - J-208

Coin Details

Auction Record

$12,650 MS65 06-21-2006 American Numismatic Rarities

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, making it one of the most historically significant transitional patterns in American numismatics. The varying rarity ratings reflect multiple die marriages cataloged under the J-208 designation, some considerably scarcer than others. These transitional cents are avidly collected by both Indian Head cent enthusiasts and pattern specialists, as they document the precise moment when the Mint was preparing to introduce what would become one of America's most beloved coin designs.