1865 Proof Eagle Pattern - J-450, Gilt

Coin Details

Description

Judd-450 in its gilt version is a proof ten-dollar eagle pattern struck in base metal and gold-washed to replicate the appearance of a gold eagle, produced as part of the 1865 With Motto campaign that sought to add IN GOD WE TRUST across the full gold denomination series. Gilt patterns allowed Mint Director James Pollock and Treasury Secretary Hugh McCulloch to evaluate motto placement and design aesthetics on eagle-sized formats before committing to actual gold strikes. The proof die preparation gives J-450 deeply mirrored fields that remain impressive in gilt base-metal form, and well-preserved examples retain a warm golden color approaching that of the genuine coin.

Rarity Notes

R.7. Approximately five to ten examples known across J-450 variants; the gilt version is among the scarcer sub-types.

Cross References

Judd-450; Pollock-518; gilt variant; With Motto series