1942 Cent Pattern - J-2058, Lead

Coin Details

Description

Judd-2058, Pollock-2248, is a lead cent pattern from the 1942 wartime testing program. Lead was the heaviest alternative material tested, producing a cent that would weigh significantly more than the standard bronze version. While lead was abundant, inexpensive, and took a sharp impression from dies, it was the least practical candidate on nearly every other criterion. Lead is toxic when handled repeatedly, excessively soft (a lead cent would deform after minimal circulation), and its dark grey appearance was unattractive. The lead pattern served more as a comprehensive test of die behavior with different metals than as a serious production candidate. Nevertheless, the Mint's willingness to test even obviously impractical materials demonstrates the thoroughness and urgency of the wartime composition search. Every plausible material was evaluated to ensure the Mint could defend its ultimate recommendation — zinc-coated steel — as the best available option from a universe of exhaustively tested alternatives.

Rarity Notes

R-6 to R-7. Very rare. Lead patterns are fragile and susceptible to deformation, which reduced survival rates.

Cross References

Judd J-2058, Pollock P-2248; 1942 wartime cent composition testing program; lead composition