1865 Proof Three Dollar Pattern - J-443

Coin Details

Auction Record

$43,125 PR64 01-01-2009 Heritage Auctions

Description

Judd-443 is an 1865 three-dollar pattern struck in copper-nickel with a reeded edge. The copper-nickel alloy gives this piece a silvery-white appearance that bears no resemblance to the rich yellow gold of the regular three-dollar production coins. Like other 1865 three-dollar patterns, J-443 employs the Indian Princess Head design by James B. Longacre on the obverse, and the reverse features the denomination within a wreath of agricultural products. The classification of 1865 three-dollar patterns has been subject to revision, and some specimens now attributed to J-443 were previously cataloged under different Judd numbers. The copper-nickel composition connects this piece to the broader program of alloy testing that characterized Philadelphia Mint pattern production during the Civil War and Reconstruction eras.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare. Values reported at $21,000-$25,200. Cataloging attribution between J-442, J-443, and J-444 has evolved as metallurgical analysis has improved.

Cross References

Judd-443