1884 Proof Double Eagle Pattern - J-1738

Coin Details

Description

A copper striking of the 1884 Liberty Head double eagle, J-1738 reproduces the largest denomination in regular American coinage on an inexpensive base-metal planchet. The Liberty Head design by James B. Longacre had adorned the twenty-dollar gold piece since 1850, making it one of the most enduring designs in American gold coinage by 1884. Copper impressions of double eagle dies are among the most visually impressive pattern coins, as the generous 34-millimeter diameter allows full appreciation of the design elements that are sometimes crowded on smaller denominations. Double eagle patterns from the 1880s are consistently rare, as the Mint produced only small numbers of off-metal trial strikings for each year. The twenty-dollar denomination occupied a special position in American commerce as the primary vehicle for large gold transactions and international trade settlements, and its patterns accordingly attracted attention from the most advanced collectors. Charles Barber, who prepared the dies for the 1884 double eagle, maintained the Longacre design essentially unchanged while applying his own technical refinements to die preparation and striking quality.

Rarity Notes

R-7 to R-8 (Extremely Rare). Approximately 3-7 examples estimated. Copper double eagle patterns from the 1880s are among the rarer entries in the Judd catalog.

Cross References

Judd J-1738, Pollock P-1949