1860 Proof Double Eagle Pattern - J-272a

Coin Details

Description

Judd-272a is the legendary Paquet Reverse double eagle pattern of 1860, featuring Anthony C. Paquet's redesigned reverse with taller, narrower lettering. This unique specimen, housed in the Smithsonian Institution's National Numismatic Collection, represents the first striking of Paquet's experimental reverse that would briefly enter production in 1861 before being recalled. The obverse carries the standard Liberty Head design by James B. Longacre, while Paquet's reverse features UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and TWENTY D. in distinctly different letter proportions from the regular reverse. This is considered one of the most important pattern coins in American numismatics, as it documents the origin of the Paquet Reverse that makes the 1861-S Paquet Reverse Double Eagle one of the greatest rarities in US gold coinage.

Rarity Notes

Unique. Smithsonian Institution, National Numismatic Collection. Not available for private ownership. The related 1861 Paquet Reverse production strikes are valued in the millions.

Cross References

Judd-272a; Paquet Reverse prototype