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Patterns (1974) Values
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The prices listed in our database are intended to be used as an indication only. Users are strongly encouraged to seek multiple sources of pricing before making a final determination of value. CDN Publishing is not responsible for typographical or database-related errors. Your use of this site indicates full acceptance of these terms.
The Patterns (1974) series of Pattern Coinage in the U.S. Coins contains 2 distinct entries.
History and Overview
In 1973, the Philadelphia Mint tested seven different alloys of aluminum for use in coining Lincoln cents, employing dies of the regular design but dated 1974. It was desired to perfect a composition of 96% aluminum plus other metal(s) for durability. At the time, the price of copper was rising on international markets, and the Treasury Department was fearful that bronze cents might become impractical to coin.
After this testing, 1,570,000 aluminum cents were made. Several dozen of these were distributed to members of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee and the House Banking and Currency Committee. Other pieces were given out as curiosities and souvenirs to interested officials by Mint Director Mary Brooks. No request was made that the coins be returned. Soon afterward, news of their existence reached the numismatic press, and Brooks attempted to retrieve as many as possible. Only a few were found.
Collecting Perspective
Today, one confirmed specimen in private hands has been publicized (recently encapsulated by ICG with a grade of AU-58). Undoubtedly others are waiting in the wings to see if they are “legal” to hold, although logic suggests that there should be no question in this regard, as the pieces were distributed freely.
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The prices listed in our database are intended to be used as an indication only. Users are strongly encouraged to seek multiple sources of pricing before making a final determination of value. CDN Publishing is not responsible for typographical or database-related errors. Your use of this site indicates full acceptance of these terms.
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Numismatic publicist Donn Pearlman, writing in The Numismatist in 1986, said, "[T]here are so many examples of misleading statements, misinterpretations and misguided advice that some numismatic literature could compete for the Clifford Irving Award for Contemporary Fiction."
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