1869 RARE 25 Cent Aluminum Pattern Coin, Judd-732, PCGS & CAC Certified PR65

Offered here is a rare and phenomenal example of a late 19th century “pattern coin,” which refers to a trial or experimental coin that was never approved for mass production or released into circulation. Such coins were minted for the purposes of considering new designs or investigating alternative metal compositions. As a general rule, pattern coins are rare and valuable pieces, given their limited production.

The piece in this listing was produced as part of the “Standard Silver” issue, with 10 cent, 25 cent, and 50 cent examples struck in 3 similar, but not identical, designs. Each pattern was struck in copper, silver, and aluminum. At the time of production, aluminum was considerably more valuable than gold, due to no efficient method of extraction from aluminum ore. Indeed, when this coin was struck in 1869, total annual global aluminum production was only about 2 metric tons! Today, aluminum is commonplace, but this unusual pattern coin is a rare testament to a completely different era in American history.

The coin was designed by James B. Longacre, who served as the 4th chief engraver of the United States Mint from 1844 until his sudden death on New Year’s Day, 1869—the year this coin was produced. Longacre is best remembered for his designs of many classic U.S. coins in the second half of the 19th century, including the Indian Head cent, Shield nickel, and Liberty Head $20 gold piece, among many others. The dies upon which this pattern coin was struck were prepared by William Barber, who served as Longacre’s assistant and successor.

The obverse design features Liberty wearing a diadem, which is a jeweled crown worn as a symbol of sovereignty. Below is a scroll bearing the motto IN GOD WE TRUST. The reverse design features the denomination of 25 CENTS encircled by a laurel and oak wreath.

Roughly a dozen of these trial pieces was produced and only 8 have ever been certified by the leading certification services. In Proof 65 (out of 70) condition and with brilliantly mirrored surfaces, the specimen offered here is the second finest known of those 8 coins. This is a rare opportunity to own a piece of history that likely comes to market only once every decade, or even less. You will receive the unique coin shown in the photos housed in a luxurious matte black wood box lined in velvet.

The condition of a coin is officially graded on a 70-point scale according to standards set forth by the American Numismatic Association. Grades under 60 represent circulated grades, while grades from 60 through 70 represent uncirculated, or “mint-state” grades. Very few, if any, older coins are known to exist in perfect MS70 grade. The coin offered for sale in this listing has been certified by one or more leading certification services so you can be confident in its authenticity and stated condition.