2017-07-12 Wed

Pattern coins were mostly struck for experimenting with compositions, denominations or designs. Many of them were exclusively struck for collectors. The Philadelphia Mint produced many of them in the 1870s, some of which are good-looking while many others are average. Three such interesting trade patterns were sold by Heritage Auctions at Long Beach Expo that took place between 8th and 11th June.

An 1875 Commercial Trade dollar pattern, aluminium, Judd 1425, graded Proof 66 Cameo was sold for $64,625. Production of Trade dollars began in 1873 and it continued for many years. The coin mentioned above looks like circulating Trade dollar. Both feature a Liberty with the sea at her feet, holding an olive branch.

The pattern features Liberty sitting on a globe, flags flying at her side. A strange ship with the auxiliary sails moving forward and the smoke stack’s smoke drifts behind the ship. Liberty wears short sleeves. The reverse features a wreath and the text COMMERCIAL DOLLAR. There are only two known pieces in aluminium.