1864 Cent Patterns

About This Coin

The 1864 Cent Patterns is a United States cent from the Civil War Patterns (1860-1865) series — a late issue, 5th of 6 years in the series. In 1864, coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint. The obverse features experimental designs reflecting wartime themes including patriotic motifs and alternative compositions and the reverse displays various experimental designs. Produced during the Civil War, when coin hoarding caused severe shortages and the Mint experimented with new compositions to keep coins in circulation. A notable auction result reached $115K in PR62 grade at Stack's. Designed by James Barton Longacre and other Mint engravers.