1865 Proof Cent Pattern - J-403a, Reeded Edge

Coin Details

Auction Record

$31,625 PR64+* 06-14-2011 Stack's Bowers

Description

This variety of the Judd-403 pure copper cent pattern is distinguished by its reeded edge, an unusual feature for cent-sized coinage. Cataloged as Judd-403a, this piece shares the same regular Indian Head cent dies and pure copper composition as J-403, but was struck with a collar die that imparted vertical reeding around the circumference. Edge reeding was standard on silver and gold denominations but virtually unheard of on small cents, making this pattern a particularly unusual experiment. The reeded edge was applied as part of a broader investigation into whether edge treatment could deter counterfeiting of the cent denomination, or it may simply reflect an experimental striking using whatever collar happened to be available in the press. The pure copper composition combined with the reeded edge creates a piece that looks and feels markedly different from any cent that circulated in 1865.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare. Only 3-4 specimens documented by Teichman. Significantly rarer than the plain-edge J-403, which is itself an R-7 issue.

Cross References

Judd-403a; related to Judd-403 (Pollock-472)