(1977-78) Proof Dollar Pattern - P-5425, GOULD

Coin Details

Description

This proof striking of the Pollock-5425 experimental dollar pattern was produced by Gould Inc. as part of their 1977-78 small dollar alloy evaluation program for the US Mint. While the majority of Gould's experimental pieces were struck in business strike format to test alloy performance under standard production conditions, a select few compositions also received deliberate proof strikings on polished planchets. The P-5425 proof version allowed Mint evaluators to assess how this particular copper-nickel alloy responded to the higher striking pressures and polished die surfaces characteristic of proof production, including the quality of mirror fields, the definition of frosted design elements, and the overall visual appeal of the finished piece. The proof format also revealed alloy characteristics that business strikes could not, such as the depth of reflective surfaces achievable and the alloy's susceptibility to hairline marks during handling. Gould's experimental program was conducted in parallel with earlier INCO testing, as both companies competed to supply the alloy for what would become the Susan B. Anthony dollar in 1979. The eventual selection of the standard copper-nickel clad composition meant that none of Gould's proprietary alloy formulations entered production, making these experimental pieces the sole surviving record of alternative metallurgical paths considered for America's first small-format dollar coin.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare proof experimental piece. Gould proof dollar patterns are among the scarcest items in the experimental clad testing program, with only a few compositions receiving proof strikings. Individual proof compositions survive in quantities of one to three examples.

Cross References

Pollock P-5425 (Proof); NGC #40043; Gould Inc. experimental composition; Reed-Brenner catalog