1868 Pattern Ten Cents. Nickel, plain edge. Judd-647. Pollock-720. Low Rarity 6. PCGS graded Proof 66+. CAC. PQ. The obverse is an exact copy of the Large Cent of 1853 to 1857 with the same head of Liberty facing left, and surrounded by 13 stars. The date below is 1868. For the reverse a similar but significantly changed wreath is present, open at the top and not continuous with a more delicate ribbon and bow below. The center within the wreath states TEN / CENTS, and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA encircles the wreath. These patterns were likely issued to test the idea that since the 5C Shield design had been successfully launched in 1866, perhaps a slightly larger coin of a 10C denomination and also made with a nickel alloy would be accepted. Likely the similarity to the retired Large Cents caused this idea to be shelved for now. During this era the demand for subsidiary coinage was great, and most of the silver and especially the gold coins had disappeared from circulation. The mint tried many ideas to help alleviate the silver and gold coin shortages caused by the distruptions of the Civil War on our monetary system. Mostly untoned and well struck. Pop 1; 3 finer, 2 in 67, 1 in 67+. (PCGS # 60865) <DOTLEADER> Estimated Value $7,500 - UP
