(1977-78) Dollar Pattern - RB-1005, GOULD

Coin Details

Description

Reed-Brenner 1005 is the second Gould Inc. dollar-sized experimental pattern, testing a copper-nickel alloy composition closely related to but distinct from RB-1000. The narrow numeric gap between RB-1000 and RB-1005 indicates these two alloys are closely related variants, differing by a small percentage change in one metallic component. This incremental approach to alloy testing was characteristic of the 1970s experimental program: by producing test pieces with progressively adjusted compositions, metallurgists could identify the precise blend that optimized all performance criteria simultaneously. The Gould dollar patterns were struck using dies that bore a design suitable for evaluation but not identical to any circulating denomination, allowing the test pieces to serve their experimental purpose without creating confusion in commerce. Each struck piece was weighed, measured, and subjected to electromagnetic testing using prototype vending machine sensors, then evaluated for visual appearance, edge quality, and surface characteristics after simulated circulation wear.

Rarity Notes

R-7. Very rare experimental dollar pattern. Surviving examples are concentrated among advanced pattern and modern experimental coinage specialists.

Cross References

Reed-Brenner RB-1005; Gould Inc. experimental program; cf. RB-1000 (closely related alloy), RB-1030 through RB-1700 (other Gould dollar compositions)