1872 Proof Double Eagle Pattern - J-1251, Gilt, Amazonian

Coin Details

Auction Record

$114,000 PR63 05-07-2023 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1872 Proof Double Eagle Pattern - J-1251, Gilt, Amazonian is a proof Gold Double Eagle from the Trade Dollar Era Patterns (1871-1873) series. The obverse features Liberty seated facing left, holding an olive branch extended to the viewer, with a sheaf of wheat behind and the reverse displays an eagle perched on a bale of goods, with an olive branch and three arrows. Minted during Reconstruction and the Gilded Age, as the nation healed from civil war and debated the role of silver and gold in the monetary system. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Auction record: $114,000 PR63 05-07-2023 Heritage Auctions. Struck in gilt copper. Cataloged as PCGS #537329.

Rarity Notes

R-8. Exceedingly rare, approximately 2-4 examples known. One of the most valuable American coins of any type.

Cross References

Judd-1251, Pollock-1387 (gilt Amazonian variant)