1896 Proof Cent Pattern - J-1769

Coin Details

Auction Record

$9,200 PR65 01-09-2008 Heritage Auctions

Description

Judd-1769 is a proof pattern cent struck in aluminum with a plain edge, testing the lightest metal evaluated during the 1896 alloy program. The obverse carries Barber's shield design with thirteen stripes, LIBERTY on a scroll across the shield, crossed poles behind supporting a Phrygian cap and eagle, E PLURIBUS UNUM above, the date 1896 below, and thirteen stars arranged seven left and six right around the border, all within a beaded border. The reverse displays 1 CENT centered within a curved olive sprig, with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around the circumference and a beaded border. Aluminum had fascinated Mint officials since the 1860s for its extraordinarily light weight — an aluminum cent would weigh a mere fraction of the standard 3.11-gram bronze piece, dramatically reducing the government's metal costs and the logistical burden of shipping cents in bulk. However, aluminum's softness made it prone to scratching and rapid wear in circulation, and its light weight raised concerns about public acceptance and ease of counterfeiting. The 1896 test confirmed these practical limitations, and aluminum would not be seriously reconsidered for American coinage until the controversial 1974 aluminum cent experiments. J-1769 is more available than most 1896 cent patterns, indicating aluminum's novelty encouraged Mint personnel to distribute extra specimens to collectors.

Rarity Notes

R-6 to R-7. Approximately 10 to 20 examples exist. Aluminum patterns are fragile and often show handling marks.

Cross References

Judd J-1769, Pollock P-1985