1858 Proof Cent Pattern - J-216

Coin Details

Description

Cataloged as Judd-216, this pattern cent presents the dateless Indian Head obverse paired with yet another reverse from the experimental series. The obverse displays the Indian Head portrait without a date, with the nation's name split on either side. The reverse features a distinct wreath design from those used on J-214 and J-215. Struck in copper-nickel with a plain edge, J-216 completes the trio of dateless Indian Head patterns using Obverse 7. Together, J-214 through J-216 demonstrate the Mint's systematic approach to testing die combinations: the same dateless obverse was paired with different reverses and struck in both copper-nickel and copper to evaluate the full range of possibilities. The dateless configuration was ultimately abandoned in favor of placing the date on the obverse beneath the portrait, as seen on the issued 1859 Indian Head cent.