1863 Proof Two Cent Pattern - J-305, Washington

Coin Details

Auction Record

$10,800 PR67BN 11-18-2019 Stack's Bowers

Description

The 1863 Proof Two Cent Pattern - J-305, Washington is a proof cent struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Civil War Patterns (1860-1865) series. The obverse features a shield with a banner inscribed IN GOD WE TRUST — the first U.S. coin to bear this motto and the reverse displays a wreath enclosing 2 CENTS. Produced during the Civil War, when coin hoarding caused severe shortages and the Mint experimented with new compositions to keep coins in circulation. 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: $10,800 PR67BN 11-18-2019 Stack's Bowers. Struck in copper. Cataloged as PCGS #60460.

Rarity Notes

Rarity-7 to R-8. Extremely rare and highly sought after. The Washington portrait obverse makes this one of the most desirable Civil War era patterns. Auction prices can exceed $50,000.

Cross References

Judd-305; Pollock-357; Washington portrait two-cent