1858 Proof Cent Pattern - J-200

Coin Details

Description

Cataloged as Judd-200, this unusual pattern cent features the Small Letters Flying Eagle obverse without a date, paired with one of the experimental reverse designs. The obverse shows the familiar eagle in flight with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA in small letters, but notably omits the date entirely. This dateless configuration distinguishes it from the otherwise similar Judd-191 through 195, which bear the year 1858. Struck in copper-nickel with a plain edge, the absence of a date on this pattern indicates the Mint was considering whether the year should appear on the obverse at all, or experimenting with die preparation techniques. The dateless Flying Eagle patterns (J-200 and J-201) are among the more enigmatic entries in the 1858 pattern cent series. They demonstrate the extent of experimentation underway at the Philadelphia Mint during this pivotal transitional period between the Flying Eagle and Indian Head cent designs.