1865 Proof Three Cent Pattern - J-414

Coin Details

Auction Record

$8,625 PR64 03-22-2012 Stack's Bowers

Description

Judd-414, Pollock-485, is a three-cent pattern struck in oroide, a gold-colored copper alloy sometimes called French gold that was used experimentally for coinage during the 1860s. Oroide typically consists of copper and zinc in proportions that give it a rich golden color, making it visually similar to gold coins. Struck from regular three-cent nickel dies with a plain edge, this pattern explored whether the attractive oroide alloy might serve as a viable coinage metal. The golden appearance of a three-cent coin would have been unusual and potentially confusing in circulation, where color was one of the primary ways people distinguished between denominations. This pattern represents one of several oroide experiments conducted at the Philadelphia Mint during the Civil War era, when disruptions to normal metallic supplies prompted exploration of alternative alloys.

Rarity Notes

Rarity-7+ (R-7+). Extremely rare, with fewer than 4 specimens believed known. A PR64 PCGS CAC example was offered by Stacks Bowers.

Cross References

Judd-414; Pollock-485