1865 Proof Cent Pattern - J-406

Coin Details

Auction Record

$6,900 PR65 01-07-2008 Stack's

Description

The proof version of Judd-406 was struck in nickel alloy from the regular 1865 Indian Head cent dies. While the same Judd number covers both business strike and proof examples, the proof impressions exhibit the sharply defined details and reflective fields characteristic of careful die preparation. Chief Engraver James B. Longacre's Indian Head design renders beautifully in the hard nickel alloy, with fine details in the feathered headdress and individual leaves in the reverse wreath standing out in sharp relief. The bright, almost white appearance of the nickel alloy starkly contrasts with the warm brown tones of regular bronze cents from the same year. Like other J-406 specimens, both Plain 5 and Fancy 5 date logotype varieties exist among proof strikings. The nickel composition connects this piece to the broader experimentation with nickel alloys that culminated in the Shield Nickel's adoption the following year.

Rarity Notes

Rarity-6 (Low). Proof examples are somewhat scarcer than business strikes of the same Judd number. Auction prices range from $2,400-$5,750.

Cross References

Judd-406; Pollock-475; Snow-PT1c