1884 Proof Cent Pattern - J-1723a

Coin Details

Description

A compositional variant of J-1723, this ring cent pattern is distinguished by its copper planchet, differentiating it from the copper-nickel J-1723 through the "a" suffix that denotes a distinct metal in the Judd cataloging system. The copper version of the annular cent approximates the color of the standard bronze Indian Head cent while incorporating the experimental perforated form. This variant allowed Mint officials to evaluate the ring cent concept in a material closest to the existing cent composition, providing a direct comparison of how the perforated format would look and feel if applied to the standard production alloy. The existence of four distinct metallic variants of the 1884 ring cent — nickel, aluminum, copper-nickel, and copper — demonstrates the thoroughness of the evaluation process that Eastman Johnson's proposal received. Despite this systematic testing, the ring cent was never adopted for production. The concept would be revisited in 1885 with additional patterns, but American small-denomination coinage would retain its traditional solid-planchet format.

Rarity Notes

R-7 (Extremely Rare). Approximately 7-12 examples estimated. Copper variants of pattern coins from this era are typically scarcer than their base-metal counterparts.

Cross References

Judd J-1723a, Pollock P-1933