1861 Proof Quarter Eagle Pattern - J-282

Coin Details

Auction Record

$3,060 PR61BN 11-19-2023 Heritage Auctions

Description

Judd-282, Pollock-334, is a proof quarter eagle pattern struck in copper during 1861. This pattern explored potential design changes for the $2.50 gold denomination, testing an experimental arrangement that could replace the established Liberty Head design. The quarter eagle was the smallest standard gold denomination, and patterns for it are correspondingly rare. Copper strikings served as economical surrogates for gold, allowing the Mint to produce more specimens for evaluation without consuming precious metal. The piece would have been struck with full proof finish to best represent how the design would appear on an actual gold coin.

Rarity Notes

Rarity-7. Approximately 5-10 specimens known. Quarter eagle patterns of this era are scarce in any composition.

Cross References

Judd-282; Pollock-334