2017-07-10 Mon

Pattern coins were generally used to do experiments for new compositions, denominations or designs. Many of them were produced exclusively for collectors. In the 1870s, Philadelphia Mint produced hundreds of pattern types. Some were good looking while others were very average. Heritage Auction offered three interesting pattern coins at the Long Beach Expo which took place between 8th and 11th June.

An 1879 Washlady quarter dollar pattern, silver, Judd 1590, graded Proof 66 Cameo was sold for $25,850. The name “Washlady patterns” comes from the design that shows Liberty’s high ponytail which is loose, casual and untidy. William Barber’s son Charles created the design probably because the senior Barber’s Liberty portrait is similar to Charles’s 1883 Liberty Head 5-cent piece. The Washlady design appeared on different denominations.