1859 Proof Double Eagle Pattern - J-257a

Coin Details

Description

Judd-257a is a die variety of the 1859 Paquet reverse double eagle pattern, distinguished from J-257 by a subtle difference in the die state or die combination. Like J-257, this copper pattern features the Coronet Liberty Head obverse by Longacre paired with Paquet's experimental reverse design featuring a wreath of oak and laurel enclosing TWENTY D. The "a" suffix in the Judd catalog indicates a recognized variant of the basic J-257 type, typically involving a different reverse die state, a different edge treatment, or a different metal composition. Struck with a reeded edge, this pattern is part of the series of experimental double eagle designs that Paquet produced in 1859 as he refined his reverse design. Each die combination in this series provides evidence of the evolutionary steps leading to the adopted Paquet Reverse of 1861.

Rarity Notes

R.7+. Extremely rare; fewer than 5 examples exist.

Cross References

Pollock-307