1942 Cent Pattern - RB-42-70-X-4

Coin Details

Description

Reed-Brenner 42-70-X-4 is the fourth and final experimental cent pattern in the Reed-Brenner X-series from the 1942 wartime testing program. As the last numbered entry in the X-series, this pattern may represent the final experimental composition tested in the cent format before the Mint concluded its evaluation and recommended zinc-coated steel for adoption. The four X-series cent patterns, together with the five T-series token patterns, constitute the Reed-Brenner contribution to the most extensive composition testing program in United States Mint history. Combined with the Judd-numbered patterns (J-2051 through J-2081), the Pollock variant (P-2077), and the Lincoln-die patterns (J-2079, J-2080), the complete 1942 wartime experimental series encompasses over 40 distinct varieties — a remarkable body of evidence documenting the Mint's response to a wartime material crisis that threatened the nation's ability to produce its most fundamental denomination.

Rarity Notes

R-6 to R-7. Very rare. As the final X-series entry, this was produced in the smallest quantity of the four experimental cent patterns.

Cross References

Reed-Brenner RB-42-70-X-4; 1942 wartime cent composition testing program; final X-series entry