1859 Pattern Indian Cent. Judd-228, Pollock-272. Rarity-1. Copper-Nickel. Plain Edge. MS-63 (PCGS). Obv: The regular issue design of 1859 with pointed bust. Rev: The Oak Wreath with Shield design adopted for regular issue Indian cent production in 1860. This is a boldly to sharply struck example with wisps of pale copper-rose iridescence to otherwise pale sandy-tan patina. This is a popular transitional issue, circulation strike survivors of which are almost exclusively in Mint State, as here. This fact suggests that these coins were distributed to collectors, possibly in trade for items to grow the Mint Cabinet collection, although Indian cent specialists have long included Judd-228 as part of the regular issue set. This attractive near-Gem would do nicely in either a pattern collection or advanced set of this popular small cent series. From the Macon Collection.
