1865 Cent Pattern - J-406

Coin Details

Auction Record

$3,630 MS66 05-20-1996 Bowers & Merena

Description

This 1865 Indian Head cent pattern was struck in nickel alloy using the regular production dies of the year. Cataloged as Judd-406 and Pollock-475, it represents one of the more available 1865 cent patterns, known in both business strike and proof finishes. The obverse carries James B. Longacre's familiar Indian Head design with a feathered headdress on Lady Liberty, while the reverse displays the oak wreath and shield adopted for the series in 1860. Die varieties exist with both Plain 5 and Fancy 5 date logotypes, indicating that multiple strikings occurred over a period of time. The nickel composition gives these pieces a bright, silvery appearance quite distinct from the bronze alloy used for regular 1865 cents. This pattern demonstrates the Philadelphia Mint's continued interest in testing alternative metals for the cent denomination, even after the transition from copper-nickel to bronze had been completed the previous year.

Rarity Notes

Rarity-6 (Low). Estimated 20-30 known across proof and business strike formats. Among the most obtainable 1865 cent patterns. Proof examples typically realize $2,400-$5,750 at auction.

Cross References

Judd-406; Pollock-475; Snow-PT1c