1861 Proof Cent Pattern - J-274

Coin Details

Auction Record

$150 PR64BN 08-29-2018 eBay

Description

The 1861 Proof Cent Pattern - J-274 is a proof cent struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Civil War Patterns (1860-1865) 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. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Auction record: $150 PR64BN 08-29-2018 eBay. Struck in copper. Cataloged as PCGS #12090.

Rarity Notes

Rarity-6 to R-7. Approximately 10-15 specimens known. Auction prices typically range from $3,000-$7,500 for certified proof examples.

Cross References

Judd-274; Pollock-322