1865 Proof Quarter Pattern - J-428a

Coin Details

Auction Record

$9,775 PR 01-01-2009 Heritage Auctions

Description

Judd-428a is one of the most remarkable pieces in the entire Civil War pattern series — a unique bimetallic composite quarter pattern. This extraordinary piece combines two different metals in a single coin, with a core of one metal surrounded by a ring of another, creating a visually striking bimetallic effect decades before bimetallic coinage became common worldwide. The bimetallic construction demonstrates advanced metallurgical experimentation at the Philadelphia Mint during the Civil War, testing whether composite planchets could serve as an anti-counterfeiting measure. The technology would not see widespread adoption until the late 20th century.

Rarity Notes

Unique. The only known bimetallic composite pattern from the Civil War era. One of the most technologically advanced patterns of the 19th century.

Cross References

Judd-428a; unique bimetallic composite