1866 Proof Three Dollar Pattern - J-544

Coin Details

Description

The highest-numbered Judd variety in the 1866 three-dollar pattern series, J-544 represents a further variation in the design or composition testing for the WITH MOTTO three-dollar gold piece. With four distinct Judd numbers assigned to 1866 three-dollar patterns (plus the J-531a variant), this denomination received disproportionate attention relative to its modest production figures and limited circulation role. This may reflect Longacre's personal attachment to the design he created in 1854, or the technical challenges of integrating additional text onto the coin's relatively small 20.5mm planchet. The proof format displays the design at its finest, with every detail of the Indian Princess headdress and the individual leaves in the agricultural wreath rendered with crystalline sharpness.

Rarity Notes

R.7. Approximately 5-10 examples estimated extant.

Cross References

Pollock-3612