Lot 1282
1896 Pattern Cent. Copper, plain edge. Judd-1768. Pollock-1983. Rarity 5. PCGS graded Proof 64 Red CAC Approved. Full coppery red surfaces; the strike razor-sharp on all devices including the shield Chief (liines at top) and vertical stripes. Although the design of the five and one cent pieces had been open for change since 1892, the first to be made were those of this year designed by C. E. Barber.
According to an official report fifteen different metal combinations were used to strike these pieces and ten pieces were struck from each alloy.
A resolution passed by the House of Representatives June 9, 1896, requested the Secretary of the Treasury to report "as to the comparative merits and advantages of pure nickel alloy, aluminum combined or alloyed with other metals, and of copper bronze as material for our minor coins," and authorized the striking of "such experimental minor coins of the metals above mentioned, pure and in combination with other metals, as he may deem necessary and proper."
In compliance with the resolution experimental five and one cent pieces with this simple but artistic shield device were struck at the Mint from pure nickel, pure aluminum, an alloy of 66% copper, 18% nickel and 16% zinc, and three different alloys of aluminum. Pop. 2; none finer (PCGS # 82222) .
Estimated Value $4,500 - 5,000.
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| Realized $5,635 |
