1873 Proof Two Cent Pattern - J-1259

Coin Details

Auction Record

$22,800 PR64+ 01-24-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1873 Proof Two Cent Pattern - J-1259 is a proof cent struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of 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. First year of the Trade Dollar, authorized under the Coinage Act of 1873 to compete with the Mexican peso in Asian silver markets. At 420 grains, it was deliberately heavier than the standard silver dollar. 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. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Auction record: $22,800 PR64+ 01-24-2021 Heritage Auctions. Struck in other. Cataloged as PCGS #61544.

Rarity Notes

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

Cross References

Judd-1259, Pollock-1398