1890 Proof Cent Pattern - J-1757

Coin Details

Auction Record

$12,650 PR62 07-01-2009 Stack's

Description

Judd-1757 is a proof pattern cent struck from regular production Indian Head cent dies in copper with a plain edge. The obverse displays James B. Longacre's Indian Head design as used on regular issue cents of the period, showing Liberty wearing a feathered headdress inscribed LIBERTY, surrounded by UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the date 1890. The reverse features the standard oak wreath enclosing a shield at its apex with the denomination ONE CENT within. Unlike the more commonly encountered J-1758 which was struck in copper-nickel and may represent a mint error, the J-1757 proof striking in copper was an intentional Mint production, created for collectors or as a trial piece. Copper was the primary component of the standard bronze alloy used for Indian Head cents (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc), making this essentially a pure copper version of the regular issue. The proof finish with mirrored fields and frosted devices confirms deliberate Mint production rather than accidental striking. By 1890, the Indian Head cent design was in its thirty-first year of production and would continue unchanged until replaced by Victor David Brenner's Lincoln cent in 1909. Pattern cent production in this era was extremely limited, making all three 1890 cent patterns exceptionally rare.

Rarity Notes

R-7 to R-8. Fewer than 10 examples exist.

Cross References

Judd J-1757, Pollock P-1972