1878 Proof Eagle Pattern - J-1580, Gilt

Coin Details

Auction Record

$21,000 PR62 01-16-2022 Heritage Auctions

Description

Proof eagle pattern struck in 1878, a pivotal transition year following the Bland-Allison Act's mandate for silver dollar production, as George T. Morgan's designs emerged alongside continued metric coinage studies. This proof striking in gold is part of the eagle ($10) gold denomination design studies conducted at the Philadelphia Mint under Chief Engraver William Barber. This gilt copper striking was gold-plated to simulate the intended gold finish, allowing evaluation of the design without expending precious metal.

Rarity Notes

R-7 to R-8 (Extremely Rare). Gilt copper strikings of gold denomination patterns are typically rarer than their gold counterparts.

Cross References

Judd J-1580, Pollock P-1725