1859 Proof Double Eagle Pattern - J-263

Coin Details

Auction Record

$21,600 PR62+BN 02-25-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

Judd-263 is the final entry in the series of 1859 Paquet reverse double eagle patterns, representing the last die combination cataloged in the J-257 through J-263 sequence. The obverse features the Coronet Liberty Head by Longacre, while the reverse displays Paquet's wreath design enclosing the denomination. As the highest-numbered variety in this series, J-263 may represent either Paquet's most refined 1859 design iteration or an alternative die state. Struck in copper with a reeded edge, this pattern is among the rarest in the double eagle pattern series. Taken together, the seven Judd numbers assigned to the 1859 Paquet double eagle patterns (J-257 through J-263) document one of the most important design development programs in 19th-century American numismatics, leading directly to the production and rapid recall of the Paquet Reverse double eagle in January 1861.

Rarity Notes

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

Cross References

Pollock-314