1867 Cent Pattern - J-551

Coin Details

Auction Record

$700 MS63 07-30-2018 eBay

Description

The business strike counterpart to the proof J-551, this 1867 Indian Head cent pattern was struck without the mirror finish of proof production, simulating how the design would appear on coins intended for general circulation. Business strike patterns are typically rarer than their proof counterparts because the Mint primarily produced patterns in proof format for official examination and collector distribution. The existence of a business strike version indicates this die pair was being evaluated for potential mass production, testing how the IN GOD WE TRUST motto and overall design would hold up under standard striking pressures rather than the slower, more deliberate proof process.

Rarity Notes

R.7 to R.8. Extremely rare, approximately 4-7 examples known.

Cross References

Pollock-3587