1881 Proof Three Cent Pattern - J-1670

Coin Details

Auction Record

$10,925 PR65 01-05-2011 Heritage Auctions

Description

Third and final three-cent pattern in the 1881 series, completing the trio of design studies for this denomination. Like its companions J-1668 and J-1669, this pattern pairs the Liberty Head obverse with the Roman numeral III reverse within the agricultural wreath. The variant may differ in metal composition — struck in copper or aluminum rather than the standard copper-nickel — or may represent a distinct die pairing with minor design differences. The three-cent denomination had been created specifically to facilitate the purchase of three-cent postage stamps, but postal rate changes and the widespread availability of other small-denomination coins had eroded its practical necessity. Despite the evident care that Barber invested in these patterns, the three-cent denomination continued with its existing Shield-type design until it was abolished by the Act of September 26, 1890. The 1881 patterns thus document a road not taken in American coinage design.

Rarity Notes

R-6 to R-7 (Very Rare to Extremely Rare). Estimated 8-12 specimens surviving.

Cross References

Judd J-1670, Pollock P-1871