1870 Proof Three Cent Pattern - J-802

Coin Details

Auction Record

$3,300 CH PR 06-07-1990 Stack's

Description

Completing the trio of compositions for the small Liberty Head and open wreath III design, J-802 was struck in copper-nickel. The same dies that produced J-800 in silver and J-801 in standard silver here demonstrate how dramatically a design's character changes when translated from a precious metal to a base-metal alloy. Copper-nickel's harder surface and different flow characteristics under striking pressure could produce sharper details in some areas while softening others, giving each composition variant its own distinctive visual signature.

Rarity Notes

R-6 to R-7. Approximately 10-15 examples estimated.

Cross References

Judd-802, Pollock-894