1880 Proof Dollar Pattern - J-1646

Coin Details

Auction Record

$7,560 PR65BN 06-05-2019 Goldberg Auctioneers

Description

The copper composition variant of the Barber coronet Liberty goloid metric dollar design for 1880. Struck from the same dies as J-1645, this piece translates the goloid metric concept into copper, producing a coin with warm reddish-brown tones that stands in vivid contrast to the silvery goloid original. Copper strikings served a dual purpose in the pattern program: they allowed evaluation of die quality and design aesthetics without consuming the expensive goloid alloy, and they provided collectible specimens for the numismatic trade, which had become an increasingly important source of revenue and goodwill for the Philadelphia Mint. The reverse retains the full goloid metric specifications despite being struck on a copper planchet, creating a deliberate contradiction between the coin's stated composition and its actual metal content. Charles Barber's decision to continue producing his father's goloid patterns in 1880 speaks to institutional continuity at the Mint during a period of leadership transition.

Rarity Notes

R-7. Approximately 7-12 examples are estimated to exist. Copper strikings of goloid metric patterns are generally comparable in rarity to their goloid counterparts.

Cross References

Judd J-1646, Pollock P-1846