(1942) Cent Pattern - RB-42-70-X-1

Coin Details

Description

Reed-Brenner 42-70-X-1 is an experimental cent pattern from the 1942 wartime composition testing program, cataloged in the Reed-Brenner numbering system that covers the experimental strikings produced alongside the standard Judd-numbered patterns. The parenthesized date indicates undocumented exact dating within the 1942 testing period. The "X" designation in the Reed-Brenner system denotes experimental cent patterns as opposed to the "T" (token) series. These experimental strikings were produced as part of the most comprehensive alternative-composition testing program in United States Mint history, driven by the urgent need to find a copper substitute after the War Production Board determined that the 700 tons of copper consumed annually by cent production was critical for military applications including shell casings, cartridge cases, and communication wire.

Rarity Notes

R-6 to R-7. Very rare. Reed-Brenner experimental cent patterns are less well-documented than their Judd counterparts and survive in very small numbers.

Cross References

Reed-Brenner RB-42-70-X-1; 1942 wartime cent composition testing program