1861 Cent Patterns
Base
About This Coin
The 1861 Cent Patterns is a United States cent from the Civil War Patterns (1860-1865) series — the second year of the series. The obverse features experimental designs reflecting wartime themes including patriotic motifs and alternative compositions and the reverse displays various experimental designs. Produced during the Civil War, when coin hoarding caused severe shortages and the Mint experimented with new compositions to keep coins in circulation. Designed by James Barton Longacre and other Mint engravers. As the war disrupted coin supply and caused widespread hoarding, the Mint experimented with alternative compositions (including paper, rubber, and various base metals) and new designs to address the currency crisis.
Specifications
Strike Types & Varieties(1)
Other Base Coins in This Series
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