1870 Proof Half Eagle Pattern - J-1033

Coin Details

Description

Rendering the half eagle's Coronet Liberty Head and eagle reverse in aluminum, J-1033 reduces the five dollar gold piece to a fraction of its normal weight. Where a gold half eagle weighs approximately 8.36 grams, an aluminum version of similar dimensions would weigh roughly 1.5 grams, creating a dramatic disparity between the coin's monetary face value and its physical presence. Aluminum half eagle patterns are exceptionally scarce, as the Mint produced only a handful of specimens in this exotic composition for the most dedicated pattern collectors and institutional collections.

Rarity Notes

R-8. Very rare to unique, approximately 2-3 examples known.

Cross References

Judd-1033, Pollock-1168