1871 Proof Quarter Eagle Pattern - J-1164, Gilt

Coin Details

Description

A gilt copper striking of the Liberty Head quarter eagle design, this pattern recreates the golden appearance of the production coin through the application of gold plating over a copper base. Gilt patterns served a dual purpose: they demonstrated how the design would appear in its intended gold color for evaluation, while costing substantially less to produce than actual gold strikings. The gilding process created a visual approximation of the production coin that was convincing enough for design assessment.

Rarity Notes

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

Cross References

Judd-1164, Pollock-1299 (gilt variant)