1915 Proof Dollar Pattern - J-1793a-6/1965

Coin Details

Description

The sixth sub-variety of the J-1793a Pan-Pacific dollar pattern, also cataloged as 1965. Sharing its alternative catalog number with sub-varieties 1, 2, and 5, this piece belongs to the group employing the same basic die pairing while varying in metal, edge, or finish. By 1915, the practice of producing pattern coins in multiple metals from a single die pair was well established at the Philadelphia Mint, serving both practical and commercial purposes. Practically, different metals revealed how fine design details — lettering, hair strands, feather barbs, and other delicate elements — would render under production conditions. Commercially, the sale of pattern coins to collectors had become an important source of supplemental revenue for the Mint, and variety creation maximized the number of distinct collectibles from each die preparation. The Pan-Pacific dollar patterns were produced during a year of exceptional activity at the Mint, which was simultaneously striking regular-issue coinage, the authorized Pan-Pacific commemoratives, and various other pattern and experimental pieces. Sub-variety 6 represents one strand in this complex web of numismatic production.

Rarity Notes

R-7 to R-8 (Extremely Rare). Individual sub-varieties are known in only a handful of specimens.

Cross References

Judd J-1793a-6, also cataloged as 1965