1865 Two Cent Pattern - J-409a

Coin Details

Auction Record

$21,600 MS66+ 01-24-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

Judd-409a is a two-cent pattern struck in an experimental alloy, representing a metallic variant of the standard J-409 nickel two-cent pattern. The "a" suffix indicates this piece was struck from the same dies as J-409 but on a planchet of different metallic content, aluminum or a copper-nickel alloy variant. This off-metal experiment continued the Mint's practice of testing each denomination in multiple compositions, even after the two-cent piece's bronze composition had been settled. Such experiments generated useful data about alloy behavior during striking that informed decisions about other denominations.

Rarity Notes

Rarity-7. Approximately 5-8 specimens known. Scarcer than the standard nickel J-409.

Cross References

Judd-409a; related to Judd-409 (Pollock-479)