1870 Proof Dollar Pattern - J-1022

Coin Details

Auction Record

$20,700 PR66 01-01-2009 Heritage Auctions

Description

The proof version of J-1022, struck in nickel from the regular Seated Liberty dollar dies, is distinguished from its business strike counterpart by its use of the proof obverse die where the date is positioned high and to the right of the shield point. Proof nickel strikings exhibit the deeply mirrored fields and frosted devices characteristic of careful Mint preparation, contrasting with the more utilitarian appearance of the business strikes. Nickel's hardness produces a distinctive bluish-silver appearance that differs subtly from both standard silver and the more familiar copper-nickel alloy, giving the proof version a uniquely crisp, almost steely character.

Rarity Notes

R-7. Extremely rare, approximately 4-12 examples survive between business strike and proof versions.

Cross References

Judd-1022, Pollock-1157