1870 Proof Cent Pattern - J-787

Coin Details

Description

One of three cent patterns produced as part of Mint Director Henry R. Linderman's ambitious 1870 Standard Silver coinage proposal, J-787 was struck in the experimental standard silver alloy that defined the entire series. The obverse carries the familiar Indian Head design with LIBERTY inscribed on the headband, while the reverse displays an oak wreath enclosing a shield. By applying the proposed lower-fineness silver alloy to the humble cent denomination, Linderman demonstrated the breadth of his vision for a unified national coinage standard, though the impracticality of silver cents for everyday commerce made this more a conceptual demonstration than a realistic production candidate.

Rarity Notes

R-7. Extremely rare, estimated 4-12 examples known.

Cross References

Judd-787, Pollock-877