© Stacks Bowers
© Stacks Bowers
2½ Dollars "Quarter Eagle" Pattern; Gilt Copper
1857 year| Gold plated copper | 2.488 g | 18 mm |
| Issuer | United States |
|---|---|
| Period | Federal republic (1776-date) |
| Type | Pattern |
| Year | 1857 |
| Value | 2½ Dollars (2.50 USD) |
| Currency | Dollar (1785-date) |
| Composition | Gold plated copper |
| Weight | 2.488 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#421886 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Bald Eagle with shield and outstretched wings grabbing olive branches and arrows in its talons.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
·UNITED STATES OF AMERICA·
2½ D.
Engraver: Christian Gobrecht
Edge
Reeded
Comment
First US pattern not of a Dollar or Double Eagle type. Rarity: R-7, with 8 specimens known. 6 are low date variety (like the coin pictured).
Interesting fact
The Pattern 2½ Dollars "Quarter Eagle" (Pattern; Gilt Copper) 1857 from United States is interesting because it was never officially minted or circulated, yet it is still considered a legitimate pattern coin. It was created as a trial piece to test the design and composition of the quarter eagle denomination, which was eventually adopted in 1851. Despite its rarity, this coin is highly sought after by collectors due to its historical significance and unique status as a pattern coin.
