1865 Proof Two Cent Pattern - J-409b

Coin Details

Auction Record

$2,860 PR65 05-20-1996 Bowers & Merena

Description

Judd-409b is a remarkable two-cent pattern struck in aluminum alloy from the regular 1865 two-cent piece dies with a plain edge. PCGS and NGC certification records identify the alloy as approximately 94% aluminum, 4% iron, and 2% tin. Aluminum was an exotic and expensive material in 1865, valued more highly than gold in some markets because commercial-scale production via electrolysis had not yet been developed. The Philadelphia Mint experimented with aluminum for patterns across multiple denominations during this era, testing whether the lightweight metal could serve as a practical coinage material. The extreme lightness of an aluminum two-cent piece would have been immediately noticeable to anyone handling it, and this impracticality contributed to aluminum never being adopted for regular circulating coinage of this period.

Rarity Notes

Very rare. Aluminum patterns from this era are seldom encountered at auction. The exotic composition makes this among the most sought-after 1865 two-cent patterns.

Cross References

Judd-409b; PCGS #60590