1870 Proof Three Cent Pattern - J-804a

Coin Details

Description

The copper impression from the same Seated Liberty trime obverse and Roman numeral III reverse dies used for J-804, this piece allowed direct comparison between the standard silver and copper compositions. Copper strikings of three-cent patterns carry special numismatic interest because the denomination had never been produced in copper for circulation, making every copper three-cent piece an inherently experimental object. J-804a concludes the twelve-variety three-cent subseries within the 1870 Standard Silver program, the largest group of three-cent experimental pieces from any single year.

Rarity Notes

R-7 to R-8. Very rare, approximately 3-8 examples known.

Cross References

Judd-804a, Pollock-897