1863 Proof Cent Pattern - J-300, Reeded Edge

Coin Details

Auction Record

$9,988 PR65 04-24-2013 Heritage Auctions

Description

Judd-300, Pollock-352, in proof with a reeded edge is a particularly unusual cent pattern. The reeded edge was a standard feature on silver and gold coins but virtually undocumented on cent-denomination pieces. This experimental edge treatment was applied to test whether reeding could serve as an anti-counterfeiting measure on small cents, or it may simply represent an experimental striking using an available reeded collar die. The combination of the Indian Head cent design with a reeded edge creates a piece that feels distinctly different from any cent that entered regular production, with the edge reeding giving the small copper-nickel planchet a more "precious" tactile quality.

Rarity Notes

Rarity-7. Approximately 5-10 specimens known. The reeded edge variety is notably scarcer than the plain-edge version.

Cross References

Judd-300; Pollock-352 (Reeded Edge variant)