1915 Proof Dollar Pattern - J-1966, Pan Pacific

Coin Details

Description

A second primary-numbered Pan-Pacific dollar pattern, presenting an alternative design from the companion piece J-1965. Judd-1966 explores a different obverse or reverse arrangement for the commemorative dollar denomination, offering the Commission of Fine Arts and Mint officials a distinct visual concept for comparison. The Panama-Pacific Exposition was a celebration of American ambition on a grand scale: the construction of the Panama Canal had required the excavation of over 200 million cubic yards of earth across a 50-mile isthmus, the employment of tens of thousands of workers, and the expenditure of approximately $375 million — the largest single expenditure by the United States government to that date. Commemorating this achievement through coinage carried both artistic and patriotic significance. The design proposals preserved in patterns like J-1966 reflect the Mint's effort to capture the spirit of the canal's completion and the exposition's broader celebration of American progress. Multiple dollar design proposals were evaluated because the denomination offered a larger canvas than the half dollar and a more practical striking format than the massive $50 pieces, making it an attractive option for conveying complex thematic imagery. Though the dollar was not included in the final commemorative program, these patterns document design concepts that were actively considered.

Rarity Notes

R-7 (Extremely Rare). Pan-Pacific dollar patterns are highly sought after by commemorative pattern specialists.

Cross References

Judd J-1966, Pollock P-2158