1916 Proof Dime Pattern - J-1794b

Coin Details

Auction Record

$11,385 GENUINE 01-12-2005 Heritage Auctions

Description

The "b" sub-variety of the J-1794 Mercury dime pattern, representing a further compositional or die-state variant from both the primary entry and the "a" sub-variety. The progression from J-1794 through J-1794a to J-1794b typically reflects a sequence of increasingly experimental or alternative compositions: the primary number in silver (the intended production metal), the "a" variant in copper (a standard alternative testing metal), and the "b" variant in a third material such as aluminum, white metal, or gilt copper. Each composition reveals different aspects of the design: silver produces the intended tonal qualities and reflectivity, copper highlights fine detail with exceptional clarity, and lighter metals test the design's legibility under different visual conditions. Weinman's Mercury dime was one of the last American coin designs prepared under the dual authority of the Chief Engraver and the Commission of Fine Arts, a system that would evolve considerably over the following decades. The J-1794b variant completes the primary sub-variety sequence for the Mercury dime pattern.

Rarity Notes

R-7 to R-8 (Extremely Rare). The "b" sub-variety is typically the scarcest in a three-variety sequence.

Cross References

Judd J-1794b, Pollock P-1984b