1859 Proof Double Eagle Pattern - J-257, Gilt

Coin Details

Auction Record

$33,600 • PR64 Gilt NGC CAC • 01-2025 • Heritage Auctions

Description

This gilt copper striking of Judd-257 features the same die combination as the plain copper version but with a gold wash applied to simulate the appearance of a gold double eagle. The obverse displays the standard Coronet Liberty Head by Longacre, while the reverse features Paquet's experimental wreath design enclosing TWENTY D. The gilding gives this copper pattern the golden appearance of its intended denomination, providing Mint officials and potential reviewers with a more realistic sense of how the finished gold coin would look. Gilt strikings of double eagle patterns are among the most visually striking of all 1859 patterns, as the large 34mm diameter showcases the gold wash prominently. Paquet's reverse design features taller, more closely spaced lettering than Longacre's standard reverse, a characteristic that would ultimately prove problematic when the design was briefly adopted for production in January 1861.

Rarity Notes

High R.7. Fewer than 5 gilt examples exist.

Cross References

Pollock-306