1871 Pattern Dime. Judd-1079, Pollock-1215. Rarity-7+. Aluminum. Reeded Edge. Proof-66 Cameo (NGC).The striking bright white frosted devices framed against the deeply mirrored largely devoid of the oft-seen corrosion and stains that sometimes afflict aluminum patterns fully justify the Cameo designation. Essentially untoned and free from all but the most minuscule signs of handling, this is a smooth and inviting Gem that is sure to please even the most discerning collector. First conceived around 1852 by James Longacre, the Seated Indian Princess design was finally committed to die steel in 1870 by William Barber soon after Longacres death. The design has long been one of the most popular pattern types among collectors and features Liberty seated on a globe inscribed LIBERTY wearing a ceremonial headdress and holding a pole topped with a pileus, with two flags in the background. In 1871, the design both with and without stars was used on a plethora of silver coin types from the half dime up to the proposed commercial dollar and in a variety of metals. The Judd-1079 pattern in aluminum pairs Longacres Indian Princess obverse with a then-current standard dime cereal wreath reverse die and were sold as part of larger denomination sets all featuring the Longacre design. The aluminum coins are of interest as it was still a largely exotic metal until large-scale industrial refinement began in 1886. In addition to aluminum, sets were also produced in silver and copper and all are extremely rare. J-1079 is equally rare with only three confirmed specimens including the present coin, as well as a possible fourth as recorded in the 1954 King Farouk I sale. Extraordinary in its beauty and rarity and seldom offered, this is a prize for the most dedicated of pattern specialists.From the Samuel J. Berngard Collection.
