1860 Proof Half Eagle Pattern - J-271

Coin Details

Auction Record

$170,375 PR62 08-02-2012 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1860 Proof Half Eagle Pattern - J-271 is a proof Gold Half Eagle struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Civil War Patterns (1860-1865) series. The obverse features experimental designs reflecting wartime themes including patriotic motifs and alternative compositions and the reverse displays various experimental designs. Struck during the California Gold Rush era, when vast quantities of western gold transformed the American economy and led to new denominations. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Auction record: $170,375 PR62 08-02-2012 Heritage Auctions. Struck in gold, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #12076.

Rarity Notes

Rarity-8. Only 2-3 specimens believed known. Realized $1.14 million at auction. Among the most valuable US pattern coins in private hands.

Cross References

Judd-271; Pollock-318