1864 1C J-354 MS(PCGS#535220)

June 2026 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

2298

Grade

MS66

Price

13,420

Lot Description

Metallurgical trial using the regular issue design of the 1864 No L Indian cent, struck in an alloy of 95% copper, 5% aluminum. Andrew Pollock (1994) notes three different alloys of "aluminum bronze" and further states: "These different varieties were coined to ascertain whether any copper-aluminum mixtures had qualities suitable for the production of coinage." Mint Director James Pollock included a section in his <em>Mint Report</em> for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 1864 regarding these experiments.<p>In the 2014 edition of his <em>Flying Eagle & Indian Cent Attribution Guide</em>, Rick Snow observes that Judd-354 is known in both Proof and circulation strike format. He lists only two examples, PCGS Proof-67 and NGC MS-66, the latter no longer appearing in the <em>NGC Census</em>, although PCGS now also lists single grading events in MS-66 (the present example), MS-67, and Proof-66. With only four specimens currently confirmed, the fleeting nature of this offering for advanced Indian cent and/or pattern coinage enthusiasts cannot be overstated. It is for a lovely Gem Mint State coin whose golden-tan surfaces are fully lustrous in a softly frosted texture. A few streaks and flecks of light carbon require magnification to discern, both sides with an impressively smooth appearance during in-hand viewing. Sharply struck with outstanding eye appeal and awesome rarity.