1870 Proof Three Cent Pattern - J-794

Coin Details

Auction Record

$3,760 PR62 04-24-2013 Heritage Auctions

Description

Opening the extensive three-cent pattern subseries, J-794 was struck in copper-nickel and features a Liberty Head obverse type III design paired with a reverse displaying a large Roman numeral III. This pattern relates to the copper-nickel three-cent piece that had been in production since 1865, and William Barber used the established Liberty Head motif as a foundation for exploring new die combinations. The three-cent denomination occupied a unique middle ground in Linderman's Standard Silver proposal, bridging the gap between minor copper coinage and the traditional silver denominations.

Rarity Notes

R-6 to R-7. Approximately 10-20 examples estimated.

Cross References

Judd-794, Pollock-886