1870 Proof Quarter Pattern - J-896

Coin Details

Auction Record

$4,800 PR66+BN 11-08-2017 Stack's Bowers

Description

Struck in copper with a reeded edge, J-896 translates the inscribed-diadem Liberty Head and STANDARD wreath reverse into a base metal that reveals different tonal qualities in Barber's portrait work. The warm copper surface highlights the delicate engraving of LIBERTY on the headband and the flowing curls around Liberty's bun, details that silver's reflective surface can sometimes obscure under direct lighting. Copper examples of this design group tend to survive in higher average condition than their silver counterparts, as collectors historically treated copper patterns as display pieces rather than handling specimens.

Rarity Notes

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

Cross References

Judd-896, Pollock-1003