1881 Cent Patterns
Base
About This Coin
The 1881 Cent Patterns is a United States cent from the Design Reform Patterns (1880-1942) series — the second year of the series. In 1881, coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint. The obverse features experimental designs exploring artistic improvements to U.S. coinage and the reverse displays various experimental designs. Struck during the Gilded Age of rapid industrialization and the great silver debates, when monetary policy shaped elections and economic destiny. Designed by Charles E. Barber, George T. Morgan, and others.
