1865 Proof Three Cent Pattern - J-414a

Coin Details

Auction Record

$18,000 PR66 01-24-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

Judd-414a is a variant of the J-414 three-cent pattern, struck in aluminum rather than the oroide composition of its parent number. This piece uses the same regular three-cent nickel dies and plain edge as J-414, but the switch to aluminum produces a dramatically different coin in terms of weight, appearance, and feel. Where J-414 exhibits a rich golden color from its oroide composition, J-414a has the characteristic silvery-gray appearance of aluminum. The lightweight quality of aluminum would have made this three-cent piece feel almost weightless compared to the copper-nickel production coins. Aluminum three-cent patterns are among the scarcest in the 1865 series, as the metal was difficult to work with contemporary striking technology and the resulting coins were too fragile and light for practical circulation.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare. Valued around $15,000 when available. Aluminum composition makes this significantly rarer than the already scarce oroide J-414.

Cross References

Judd-414a; related to Judd-414 (Pollock-485)