Set Description
.“IN GOD WE TRUST” …will it continue to stand the test of time!
(Click on thumbnail to enlarge image)
Stemming from the brutality of the Civil War and uncertainty of the war outcome, in 1861 Secretary of Treasury, Salmon Chase had received a letter from Reverend Watkinson of Pennsylvania with a full proposal about making a visible acknowledging of God as part our national identity and our principles, “…recognition of the Almighty God in some form on our coins”. This letter appear to parallel with others from the public urging on this matter as well. While Rev. Watkinson made a very specific description of the coin and desire wording, these were not acted on, however, Chase did acknowledge the concept of our faith in God and did request Mint Director Pollock to prepare such designs.
Dear Sir:
No nation can be strong except in the strength of God, or safe except in His defense. The trust of our people in God should be declared on our national coins.
You will cause a device to be prepared without unnecessary delay with a motto expressing in the fewest and tersest words possible this national recognition...."
 The mint responded with several patterns with a new motto incorporated, “GOD OUR TRUST”, and placed on an Eagle and Half Dollar pieces in 2 formats – one being the Motto within a Scroll and the other directly on the field. Through out the year and into 1862, more patterns were struck in these 2 format presentations.  No changes could be made without enactment of Legislation and it was not until 1863 that specific designs were formally presented to Chase when congress was ready to enact changes to the currency. Specifically the inclusion of a 2 Cent piece was where he proposed the designs with either "OUR COUNTRY; OUR GOD" or "GOD, OUR TRUST" as a motto on the coins. The two motifs that were proposed included one being of the the Shield design and the other the Bust of George Washington. Refer to patterns J-305 & J-312 in thei set as samples. In a letter back to James Pollock (the Mint Director) on December 9, 1863, Secretary Chase stated:
“I approve your motto, only suggesting that on that with the Washington obverse the motto should begin with the word OUR, so as to read OUR GOD AND OUR COUNTRY. And on that with the shield, it should be changed so as to read: IN GOD WE TRUST” 
The Act of April 22, 1864 changed the composition of the one-cent coin and authorized the minting of the two-cent coin. The Mint Director was directed to develop the designs for these coins for final approval of the Secretary and thus “IN GOD WE TRUST” first appeared on the 1864 two-cent coin
Another Act of Congress passed on March 3, 1865 that further allowed the Mint to place the motto on all gold and silver coins that "shall admit the inscription thereon.“
Congress passed the Coinage Act of February 12, 1873 and stated that the Secretary "may cause the motto IN GOD WE TRUST to be inscribed on such coins as shall admit of such motto."
The use of the motto had been uninterrupted except the motto disappeared from the five-cent coin in 1883 and found missing from the new design of the double-eagle and the eagle gold coins after they appeared in 1907. In response to a general demand, Congress ordered it restored and made it mandatory on all coins upon which it had previously appeared with exception of the 1 and 5 cents. However, the motto was restored on the Jefferson Nickel in 1938.
Reference: While Pollock and Judd share similar facts most of this information was extracted the US Dept of Treasury website ... History of IN GOD WE TRUST
Another very well done book on the subject was William Bierly's "IN GOD WE TRUST The American Civil War, Money, Banking, and Religion" where the author puts the entire concept into the context all the social and economical issues of the times.
Click below link to Return to Mania's Master Pattern Registry
Mania's US Patterns- WHAT U.S. COINAGE COULD HAVE BEEN
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Set Goals
In this registry, I had assembled the various pieces with the proposed motto additions including "GOD OUR TRUST" patterns and development on small denomination pieces as well as possible transitional designs. My one goal was to assemble all “God Our Trust” 50 Cent pieces ( 12 in total) struck in 1861 – 63 in both Copper and Silver.
While GOD OUR TRUST was the precursor to the "IN GOD WE TRUST" there are patterns that are so called "TRANSITIONAL" pieces that predate the actual pieces minted with the new motto "IN GOD WE TRUST". This group of 1863, 1864, and 1865 With Motto coins — the quarter, half dollar, and dollar can be formidable task to assemble - however the copper pieces appear slightly more frequently and I have assemble the 3 year type and included them in this registry: It is now understood that these pieces were minted i the late 1860's and muled by the mint to appear as is they were minted before the actual production dates o "IN GOD WE TRUST" and sold to collectors
Eagle Trials with "GOD OUR TRUST"
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View Coin
| J-277
Silver Motto in scroll |
United States
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50C 1861 J-277
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PCGS PF 63
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1861 50C GOD OUR TRUST
Judd-277, Pollock-328
Rarity: Low R.7 PF63
Struck in silver with reeded edge
Obverse: The same design that the Mint used to produce regular issue 1861 Liberty Seated half dollars. The point of the shield is over the left edge of the digit 8 in the date.
Reverse: Similar to the regular issue design, but with the addition of a scroll with the motto GOD OUR TRUST in the field above the eagle within a scroll.
Comment:
Lightly toned in pale silver, this coin also exhibits a few splashes of faint reddish-apricot iridescence along the upper right reverse border. One of fewer than a dozen examples of Judd-277 struck from this obverse die ("Date Left") believed extant per the uspatterns.com website.
Beginning in 1861 there was a sentiment to place the name of the Deity on our coinage. GOD OUR TRUST was one of the first mottoes suggested. IN GOD WE TRUST, the motto eventually adopted (it first appeared on a circulating coin with the two-cent piece of 1864), was first used on pattern coins two years after 1861, in 1863. For some reason, IN GOD WE TRUST never was used on paper money— until in the I950’s Matt Rothert first suggested the idea. So, now the government emphasizes God on our coins and paper money and considers IN GOD WE TRUST a necessary part of all new designs (the new bicentennial coins being the latest example).
Provenance/Appearance:
From the E. Horatio Morgan Collection. Stacks and Bowers Aug 2019 ANA Rosemont, IL. / Lot #3323 with note acquired in Dec 1987; Prior
- Bowers & Ruddy Dec 1975 (Kensingtom Collection) / Lot #1182
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View Coin
| J-278
Copper Motto In scroll |
United States
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50C 1861 J-278
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PCGS PF 64 Red Brown
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1861 P50C Half Dollar,
udd-278, Pollock-329
Rarity: Low R.7 PR64+ RB
Ex: Simpson.
Struck in copper with a reeded edge
Obverse: The same design that the Mint used to produce regular issue 1861 Liberty Seated half dollars. The date is set left in the exergue with the shield point nearer the 8 in the date -- Pollock left this number available in case such a coin was found as this one.
Reverse: Similar to the regular issue design, but with the addition of a scroll with the motto GOD OUR TRUST in the field above the eagle within a scroll.
Comment: James Longacre applied the GOD OUR TRUST motto on these and other patterns for its brevity and clarity as an "expression of National reliance upon Divine support" -- one that could fit in the field above the eagle while remaining legible and unobtrusive. Abundant fiery mint-red color appears throughout this near-Gem, though most of the coin is deep brown. A flashy proof and one of some significance.
Provenance:
Ex: Bob Simpson, Heritage Nov 2020 US Signature Auction / Lot #3122
Plate coin for PCGS Coinfacts for type J278 RB
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View Coin
| J-279 50C SILVER |
United States
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50C 1861 J-279
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PCGS PF 64 Cameo
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1861 50C
Judd-280, Pollock-330
Rarity: Low R.7 , PR64 Deep Cameo , CAC Endorsed
EX; Simpson
Struck in Copper with Reeded Edge
Obverse: The same design that the Mint used to produce regular issue 1861 Liberty Seated half dollars. The point of the shield is over the left edge of the digit.
Reverse: Similar to the regular issue design, but with the addition of a scroll with the motto GOD OUR TRUST in the field above the eagle within a scroll.
Comment:
The fields are deeply mirrored with thick mint frost over the devices that provides the Deep Cameo contrast. Just the slightest tinge of pale golden color is present on each side.
Provenance/Appearances:
From Great Collections Feb 2023 priors: Heritage Sept 2020 Important Selections from The Bob R. Simpson Collection, Part I / Lot #10188, Heritage Jan 1999 (FUN) / Lot #7414
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View Coin
| J-280
Copper Motto On Field |
United States
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50C 1861 J-280 BRONZED
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PCGS PF 63 Brown
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1861 50C
Judd-280, Pollock-331
Rarity: Low R.7
Struck in Copper with Reeded Edge
Obverse: The same design that the Mint used to produce regular issue 1861 Liberty Seated half dollars. The point of the shield is over the left edge of the digit.
Reverse: Similar to the regular issue design, but with the addition of a scroll with the motto GOD OUR TRUST in the field above the eagle within a scroll.
Comment:
This half was one of the experimental pieces struck that tried out differing mottoes and their placement. This piece was bronzed, and these pieces are believed to be later restrikes. The surfaces are even brown with just a slight underlying reddish tone. A field scratch to the right of the eagle's head is the only mark of note
Provenance:
Heritage March 2019 Signature Auction / Lot #4518
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View Coin
| J-285 10$
God Our Trust |
United States
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$10 1861 J-285
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PCGS PF 62 Brown
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1862 $10 Ten Dollar
Judd-285, Pollock-340
Rarity: High R.7, PR62 BN High Date variation
Struck in copper with a reeded edge.
Obverse: The regular ten dollar dies for 1861.
Reverse: Similar to the regular dies design but with the addition of the motto GOD OUR TRUST on a scroll above the eagle.
Comment:
This a high date, rounded bun Pollock subvariety. Only a half-dozen or so pieces are believed known. This important example is toned in rich, rust-red shades with gray-tinged accents in the open fields. All features are boldly, if not sharply struck, and no mentionable abrasions.
A nice coin for the grade, and a rare pattern issue.
Longacre on "GOD Our Trust" inscription:
“ … The most appropriate place for such a motto, is found in connection with the national inscription, which on all our large coins is on the reverse: the device of which is an eagle with the heraldic accompaniments appropriate to the arms of the union as adopted by law: dispensing ar present with the mtto (E Pluribus Unum) and the crest, except on the Double Eagle: The place of the crest offers the best position for the insertion of such a motto as is now required as on all of the other coins which are large enough to admit of such an addition – this place is now vacant – and a motto if sufficiently brief may be introduced with the least disturbance of the device as now arranged – and I have made a drawing of the reverse of the Double Eagle in outline to indicate such a modification of the crest as will present the motto however (which was the first suggestion) “Our Trust is in God” - I found on attempting to apply it to the Eagle and Half Dollar reverses – contained too many letters to insert in the place of the crest without crowding them too much for good taste: and therefore selected for greater brevity the words “God Our Trust”; which carries the same idea – in the form of expression according with heraldic usage ~ and probably as readily understood as the more explicit form of the other.
From the considerations before mentioned, I have confined my attention to the inscription of the motto, without changing the artistic portions of the present devices. It may not be amiss to be remark however that the smallest change of the permanent devices or legends on the face of the coin, required the making of new hubs for the dies on which it is to be placed. A) I have struck this on reverse dies of the Eagle and Half Dollar, and impressions, in copper of the Eagle, and in silver of the Half Dollar are presented with these remarks which will serve to show the effect as proposed: This motto in the same letter can be placed on the four larger denominations.
Provenance/Appearances:
From Great Collections Feb 2023 ID # 1294768 priors: Heritage April 2018 CSNS Auction - Chicago / Lot #4935; ANA Signature (Heritage, 8/2001), lot 8323
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View Coin
| J-287 10$
God Our Trust |
United States
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$10 1861 J-287 GILT
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PCGS PF 63
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1862 $10 Ten Dollar (Gilt)
Judd-287, Pollock-344
Rarity: High R.7, PR63 Gilt CAC Endorsed
Ex: Bass
Plate coin for type in Pollack’s Pattern reference Book fig. 160
Struck in copper and Gilted with a reeded edge.
Obverse: The regular ten dollar dies for 1861.
Reverse: Similar to the regular dies design but with the addition of the motto GOD OUR TRUST on a scroll above the eagle.
Comment:
The high date, rounded bun Pollock subvariety. With the 2nd 1 evenly centered between dentils and the truncation of liberty bust. About a half dozen of both the low date and high date varieties are known, per USPatterns.com.
This gilt copper representative enjoys rich yellow-gold color. A handful of small spots near star 11 and a few more on the reverse are the only obvious imperfections.
146.5 grains, 1.063’ dia , ~190 deg dies alignment
Provenance/Appearances:
From Heritage Aug 2023 ANA The Harry W. Bass, Jr. Core Collection, Part IV; Prior Ex: Gilhousen Collection (Superior Galleries, 2/1973), lot 1056.
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View Coin
| J-293
Silver Motto in scroll |
United States
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50C 1862 J-293
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NGC PF 63
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1862 50C
Judd-293, Pollock-351
Rarity: R.5
Struck in silver with a reeded edge
Obverse: The same design that the Mint used to produce regular issue 1861 Liberty Seated half dollars. The point of the shield is over the left edge of the digit.
Reverse: Similar to the regular issue design, but with the addition of a scroll with the motto GOD OUR TRUST in the field above the eagle within a scroll
Comment .
This example is almost entirely brilliant with just the slightest hint of golden on each side. Lightly hairlined that may account for the grade. In Don Taxay's Comprehensive Catalogue, reference to the W. E. Woodward sale catalog of May 1863, makes claims that twenty-five original sets of GOD OUR TRUST silver half dollars and copper eagles were struck
Provenance/Appearance:
Superior’s Aug 2002 The New York ANA Sale /Lot 814; Heritage April 2010 Milwaukee, WI CSNS Auction / Lot #3379; 4/11 Northeast Numismatics Private sale
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View Coin
| J-294
Copper Motto in scroll |
United States
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50C 1862 J-294
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NGC PF 63 BN
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1862 50C
Judd-293, Pollock-352,
Rarity: Low R.7, PR63BN
Struck in Copper with a reeded edge
Obverse: The same design that the Mint used to produce regular issue 1862 Liberty Seated half dollars.
Reverse: Similar to the regular issue design, but with the addition of a scroll with the motto GOD OUR TRUST in the field above the eagle within a scroll
Comment . The design is similar to that used on regular issue 1862 Seated half dollars, except that a scroll with the motto GOD OUR TRUST is present above the eagle's head. Both sides of this needle-sharp specimen show rich mahogany-brown color with cobalt-blue accents within the devices. Just a few microscopic hairlines are seen at certain light angles, these serving to limit the grade.
Provenance/Appearance:
Acquired from Park Ave rarities : Prior the Richard Jewell Collection, Stacks August 2013 Chicago ANA / Lot#4276 ($3525).
Earlier from Heritage's sale of May 2012, lot 4668.
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View Coin
| J-295
Silver with Motto in Field |
United States
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50C 1862 J-295
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PCGS PF 64
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1862 50C Half Dollar
Judd-295, Pollock-353
Rarity: R.5, PR64+ CAC endorsed.
Ex: Simpson.
Struck in silver with a reeded edge.
Obverse: The Liberty Seated type used for the year 1862.
Reverse: Virtually identical to the adopted design with the motto GOD OUR TRUST set directly into the upper reverse field without a banner or scroll.
Comment:
Lightly toned and noticeably contrasted on each side. An L-shaped lint mark is located in the field between Liberty's head and cap. A prominent die crack traverses the reverse from the left corner of the shield to the rim above. The reverse fields are noticeably striated.
According to USPatterns.com, about two dozen of these pieces are known. W. Elliot Woodward stated in his May 1863 catalog that 25 sets were struck.
Provenance:
Ex: Bob Simpson, heritage Aug 2021 ANA WFOM / Lot #3063; priors Heritage July 2003 Baltimore / Lot #9949 (NGCPF65)
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View Coin
| J-296
Copper Motto On Field |
United States
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50C 1862 J-296
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PCGS PF 65 Brown
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1862 50C
Judd-296, Pollock-354
Rarity: High R.6, PR65 BN
Ex: Simpson.
Struck in copper with a reeded edge
Obverse: The Liberty Seated type used for the year 1862.
Reverse: Virtually identical to the adopted design with the motto GOD OUR TRUST set directly into the upper reverse field without a banner or scroll.
Comment:
The present Gem is glossy brown with vibrant accents of cobalt-blue and magenta. Flashy and pinpoint-sharp. These pre-motto patterns exist to the extent of about two dozen in silver and about half that in copper.
Provenance:
Ex: Bob Simpson Heritage Nov 2020 Signature Auction / Lot #3125; .Priors
- Heritage Jan 1999 (FUN) / Lot#7421 (NGC65BN Pass)
- Superior May 1990 (The Father Flanagan's Boys Home Sale) / Lot #3320 (NGC64BN)
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View Coin
| J-297 Double Eagle
God Our Trust
Scroll |
United States
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$10 1862 J-297
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PCGS PF 64 Brown
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1862 $10 Ten Dollar
Judd-297, Pollock-355 (Low Date varity)
Rarity: High R.6, PR64 BN
Ex: Simpson.
Struck in copper with a reeded edge.
Obverse: The regular ten dollar dies for 1862.
Reverse: Similar to the regular dies design but with the addition of the motto GOD OUR TRUST on a scroll above the eagle.
Comment:
The low date, bulging bun Pollock subvariety. This is where the Date is Lower as the 2 is closer to the dentils than to the truncation of Liberty bust.
About a half dozen High Date examples are known in copper, compared to about a dozen Low Date pieces. Many of them have been gilted.
This near-Gem proof enjoys smooth surfaces and deep mahogany-brown color with a single spot between stars 11 and 12
Provenance:
Bob Simpson Pt3, Heritage Jan 2021 FUN Auction / Lot #3090
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View Coin
| J-298 Double Eagle
God Our Trust
On Field |
United States
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$10 1862 J-298 BRONZED
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PCGS PF 65 Brown
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1862 $10 Ten Dollar
Judd-298 Bronzed, Pollock-357 (Low Date Varity)
Rarity: High R.6, PR65+ BN CAC endorsed
Ex: Simpson
Struck in copper with a reeded edge.
Obverse: The Liberty head type used to coin the regualr 1862 Half eagle
Reverse: Similar to the regualar issue type however the motto GOD OUR TRUST appears in plain letters over the eagle.
Comment:
The reverse die is rotated about 30 degrees clockwise. This is the slightly more available Low Date variety (Pollock-357) with the 2 closer to the dentils than to the truncation of Liberty’s bust. About a dozen pieces are thought to exist. The bronzed surfaces are deep mahogany-brown with the faintest steel accents. Strike definition is absolutely razor-sharp.
Provenance:
Private sale 4/21; Prior Bob Simpson Pt3, Heritage Jan 2021 FUN Auction / Lot #3091; Heritage June 2004 Long Beach Signature Sale / Lot #9574 (PR65 PCGS); Stacks-Bowers Galleries 11/14/2007 The Amherst & Waccabuc Collections /Lot #1144
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View Coin
| J-305 2 Cent
George Washington
God and Our Country |
United States
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2C 1863 J-305 Danali Collection
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PCGS PF 60 Brown
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1863 2C
J-305, Pollock-370
Rarity: R4, PR60 CAC Endorsed
Ex: :DENALI Collection
Struck in Copper with Reeded Edge
These 2C patterns carried God and Our Country motto and the head of George Washington was the first formal striking of a federal issue coin with a president head. It was not until 1932 that George Washington bust made formally in production on a US .Coin.
Comment:
While this coin is only graded PR60, this is a marvelous looking strike with great eye appeal with an overall glow with hints of Olive green hues..
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View Coin
| J-312 2 Cent
God Our Trust |
United States
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RED Brown 2C 1863 J-312
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NGC PF 65 RB
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1863 2C Two Cents,
Judd-312, Pollock-377
Rarity: R.4, PR65 RB
Struck in bronze with a plain edge.
Obverse: Dies are similar to those adopted for the business strike two cent piece in 1864, except that the motto reads GOD OUR TRUST
Reverse: Dies are similar to those adopted for the business strike two cent and the word CENTS is sharply curved on the reverse.
Comment:
This is a lovely Gem proof with smooth underling of original red color on both sides with a light brown toning on all accents yielding a Cameo effect under a light Several variations in the motto were on several patterns God Out Trust seemed to be the closest alternative to the In God We Trust chosen
Provenance/ Appearances:
Private Sale Houston Money Show Jan 2014; Prior Heritage April 2002 Columbus, OH (CSNS) Sale / Lot #7604 ($2000) and Heritage Oct 2002 Internet Auction / Lot #16185 ; Heritage Jan 2002 Internet Auction / Lot #11576 ( Both Passed)
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View Coin
| J-336 25C Copper |
United States
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25C 1863 J-336
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PCGS PF 67 Red Brown
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1863 25C Quarter Dollar,
Judd-336, Pollock-408,
Rarity: Low R.7, PR67 Red and Brown
Ex: Harry W. Bass, Jr. Collection.
Struck in Copper with Reeded Edge
Obverse: Similar to the regular-issue Seated quarter of the year.
Reverse: The reverse is also similar in design but bears the With Motto motif on a scroll, as adopted officially in 1866.
Comment:
These Motto patterns were actually struck around 1869 or 1870, according to USPatterns.com. About a dozen examples of Judd-336 are known.
Flashy proof surfaces are magnificently toned in shades of orange, magenta, and violet. Essentially void of contact and carbon.
91.8 grains, diameter 0.957", die alignment 180 deg
Provenance/Appearances:
From The Harry W. Bass, Jr. Core Collection, Part II. Heritage Jan 2023 Fun Lot # 9066, Harry Bass acquired this piece in trade from Numismatics Ltd. (8/12/1972).
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View Coin
| J-337 25C
In God We Trust
In ALumnium |
United States
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25C 1863 J-337
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PCGS PF 65
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1863 25C Quarter Dollar,
Judd-337, Pollock-409
Rarity: High R.7, PF65+ CAC Endorsed
Struck in aluminum with a reeded edge.
Obverse: Similar to the regular-issue Seated quarter of the year.
Reverse: The reverse is also similar in design but bears the With "IN GOD WE TRUST" Motto motif on a scroll, as adopted officially in 1866.
Comment:
The so-called transitional quarter using the reverse of 1866-1891.
These and the other "with motto" patterns of this date and also 1864 and possibly 1865 are actually restrikes made circa 1869 and into the early 1870s and offered with restrikes of other denominations in complete sets. The reverse die used here is the same as on the 1869 and 1870 pattern and trial pieces and 1871 J1093-5 with die rust between the eagle's right (observers left) wing and the olive branch. The Bass foundation example shows extensive rust and may be a very late striking as shown below.
This aluminum J337/P409 has at least 4 confirmed.per USPattern.com
1) Manfra, Tordella,& Brooks 1974 TB - T.R. Walsh
2) Kagin’s Aug 1977 ANA, unknown intermediates, Simpson-Heritage 1/21 - PCGS67
3) Exemplar collection, Heritage 4/13 as NGC65, Stacks&Bowers 8/15 ANA, Legend Auctions 7/18 - PCGS65
4) RARCOA 1/73, Stacks 1/87, possibly the piece graded PCGS64 in their census as it was there prior to #3 being offered.
5) Great Collections 1/30/22 (This piece) possibly the same as #4 (While there are no photos in those auctions the Stacks 1/87 Lot 552 description referred to a row of tiny marks on Liberty which is similar to marks found on this piece)
As there are 5 known of the half dollar and dollar, it is likely another exists. Judd 7th edition notes that one was in the Dr Michal collection which likely is one of above or the 5th piece.
Provenance/ Appearances:
From Great collections Auction 1/30/2022 , Possible RARCOA Jan 1973 FUN Lot # 563; Stacks Jan 1987 / Lot #522
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View Coin
| J-338
Silver Motto in scroll |
United States
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50C 1863 J-338
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PCGS PF 64
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1863 50C Half Dollar
Judd-338, Pollock-410
Rarity R.5, PR64 CAC Endorsed
Ex Simpson
Struck in silver with a reeded edge
Obverse: Struck from the regular obverse die for the Liberty Seated Half Dollar of the year 1863 Reverse: Paired with the regular
Reverse Reverse die of 1863 with the motto IN GOD WE TRUST above the eagle within a Scroll.
Comments: Seven sets are believed to have been originally struck in 1863, with the remaining 23 or so pieces known being restrikes that were sold to collectors. Overall this piece has light golden toning over each side with deeply reflective mirrors.
Provenance/ Appearance:
Ex Bob Simpson Collection, Heritage Sept 2020 Important Selections from The Bob R. Simpson Collection, Part I / Lot #10199
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View Coin
| J-339
Copper Motto in scroll |
United States
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50C 1863 J-339
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PCGS PF 65 Brown
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1863 50C Half Dollar
Judd-339, Pollock-411
Rarity Low R.6, PR65BN CAC Endorsed
Struck in copper with a reeded edge
Obverse: Struck from the regular obverse die for the Liberty Seated Half Dollar of the year 1863
Reverse: Paired with the regular reverse die of 1863 with the motto IN GOD WE TRUST above the eagle within a Scroll.
Comments: Seven sets are believed to have been originally struck in 1863, with the remaining 23 or so pieces known being restrikes that were sold to collectors. Overall this piece has light golden toning over each side with deeply reflective mirrors.
Provenance/ Appearance:
Legends Regency Auction 51 Apr 2022 Lot #306, Prior Heritage's May 2012 / Lot #4671 (as NGC 65BN CAC); Stack's Bowers, August 2013 - Richard Jewell Collection / Lot #4277 PCGS
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View Coin
| J-340
Silver with Motto in Field |
United States
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50C 1863 J-340
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PCGS PF 64 Ultra Cameo
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1863 50C
Judd-340, Pollock-412
Rarity: Low R.6, PR64+ Deep Cameo CAC endorsed
Ex: Eliasberg-Simpson.
Struck in silver with a reeded edge.
Obverse: The Liberty Seated type used for the year 1863.
Reverse: Virtually identical to the adopted design with the motto GOD OUR TRUST set directly into the upper reverse field without a banner or scroll.
Comment: The fields are deeply reflective and the devices thickly frosted, the combination producing the profound cameo effect seen here. Fully struck in all areas.
About two dozen examples are known today. The design was also struck in copper (Judd-341).
Weight: 191.9 grains. Diameter: 1.201 inches
Provenance:
Ex: Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr., Collection (Bowers and Merena, 5/1996), lot 259., Bob Simpson Heritage Aug 2001 ANA WFOM / Lot #3070
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View Coin
| J-341
Copper Motto on Field |
United States
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50C 1863 J-341
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PCGS PF 65 Brown
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1863 50C
Judd-341, Pollock-413
Rarity: R.5, PR65 BN CAC Endorsed.
Struck in copper with a reeded edge.
Obverse: The obverse die is that of regular issue half dollars in 1863.
Reverse: The reverse presents the regular spread-wing eagle but with the motto GOD OUR TRUST set directly in the field, rather than on a scroll, a feature attributed to George Eckfeldt for Mint Director James Pollock.
Comments:
While labeled Brown, there is significant underlying mint red beneath the brown patina. Bright, reflective fields.
Provenance/Appearance:
From Heritage April 2020 Central States Signature Auction - Dallas / Lot #4820; Prior Superior Sept 1999 Pre Long beach / Lot# 1420
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View Coin
| J-343 1863 50 Cent
Transitional issue
IN GOD WE TRUST |
United States
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50C 1863 J-343
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PCGS PF 66 Red Brown
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1863 50C Half Dollar
Judd-343, Pollock-415
Rarity: Low R.7, PR66 RB.
Struck in Copper with Reeded Edge
Obverse: The obverse die is the design used on regular-issue half dollars in 1863.
Reverse: The reverse features the normal perched eagle design, with the addition of the scroll and motto IN GOD WE TRUST above the eagle's head.
Comment:
While traditionally called a "transitional" half dollar, this and other With Motto patterns were actually struck for the collector trade and were offered by the Mint with restrikes of other denominations as complete sets. This is a radiant, deeply reflective proof striking. The obverse is full red, while the reverse displays spotty blue patina that interrupts the otherwise even original red. Fully struck, identifiable by a single spot on the lower folds of Liberty's drapery. The obverse is a FULL CAMEO with bold contrast between the razor sharp, frosted devices and the mirrored fields. The surface quality is impeccable and the eye appeal is amazing.
Provenance/Appearances:
From THE BOYLSTON COLLECTION, Legend Rare Coin Auctions 27-May-2021 Regency #45 /Lot 178; Prior Heritage Jan 2016 FUN - Tampa / Lot #6298
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View Coin
| J-344 50C Aluminum
In God We trust |
United States
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50C 1863 J-344
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PCGS PF 64
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1863 50C Half Dollar
Judd-344, Pollock-416
Rarity: High R.7, PR64
EX: THE BOYLSTON COLLECTION
Struck in Aluminum with Reeded Edge
Obverse: The obverse die is the design used on regular-issue half dollars in 1863.
Reverse: The reverse features the normal perched eagle design, with the addition of the scroll and motto IN GOD WE TRUST above the eagle's head.
Comment:
While traditionally called a "transitional" half dollar, this and other With Motto patterns were actually struck for the collector trade and were offered by the Mint with restrikes of other denominations as complete sets.
Highly brilliant reflective surfaces gleam boldly. There are some minor toning streaks on both sides attesting to the originality of this near-GEM example. Strong glass reveals some light lines and a minute mint made planchet flaw on the reverse by the ribbon. The eye appeal is nice for the grade, and there are no issues that often plague aluminum planchets, however, there is faint retained laminations (as made) are found near the eagle's beak and the base of the first T in STATES.
Provenance/Appearances:
From THE BOYLSTON COLLECTION, PART IV Legends Auction 57 Feb 2023 /Lot # 289; priors:
- Kagin's Aug 1977 (ANA Session 3) / Lot 115
- Kagin's July 1978 Metropolitan Washington Auction / Lot 643
- Kagin's ANA Auction, August 1983, lot 3045;
- Kagin's San Diego Sale, May 1987, lot 3185;
- Frank O. Fredericks Collection, Part III, Heritage, January 2004, lot 8423;
- American Numismatic Rarities' Robert Michael Prescott Collection sale, January 2006, lot 903;
- Heritage, April 2017, lot 5092;
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| J-346 1$ Transitional
Copper |
United States
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S$1 1863 J-346
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PCGS PF 64 Brown
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1863 1$
Judd-346, Pollock-418
Rarity: Low R.7, PR64 BN
Ex: Simpson
Also plate coin in the 8th addition of the Judd reference book
Struck in Copper with Reeded Edge
Obverse: The obverse die is the design used on regular-issue dollars in 1863.
Reverse: The reverse features the normal perched eagle design, with the addition of the scroll and motto IN GOD WE TRUST above the eagle's head as used in 1866.
Comment:
While traditionally called a "transitional" half dollar, this and other With Motto patterns were actually struck for the collector trade and were offered by the Mint with restrikes of other denominations as complete sets.
This is remarkably well-preserved example whose mellowed surfaces still retain a significant amount of underlying mint red. The fields are nicely mirrored with a strong presence of mint frost over the devices.
Pollock cites three auction appearances at the time of his reference work and two impounded specimens, in addition to two privately held specimens (the Bass and “Lemus” coins which have since been auctioned) plus one other example (that might be this coin) was also mentioned as having a 170“ die rotation as seen on this piece. Pollack cited that coin as held in a collection of a renowned Florida collector. The pedigree of the East Coast Collection auctioned in 2003 was at the time one of the most spectacular specialized collections of pattern dollars that Bowers and Merena had ever offer. They noted the collector had been assembled over the prior 16 years and the focus was the Liberty Seated motif patterns. This coin was the plate coin in the 8th addition of the Judd reference book
Provenance/Appearances:
Private sale Dec 2021; Prior From The Bob Simpson Collection Heritage Aug 2021 WFOM Signature Auction / Lot #3071, Prior
- ANR Sept 2003 Classic Sale – The East Coast Collection /Lot #54 ($12,650) NGC PR64:
- Superior Crouch June 1977 lot 505
- Stacks May 1970 Gaston DiBello Collection, Part II: Lot #403
-- JUDD reference book Plate Coin for Design in 7th and 8th editions
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| J-350 Double Eagle Bronze
God Our Trust Scroll |
United States
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$10 1863 J-350 BRONZED
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NGC PF 64 BN
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1863 $10 Ten Dollar
Judd-350, Pollock-422
Rarity: Low R.6, PR64 BN CAC Endorsed
Struck in copper & Bronze with a reeded edge.
Obverse: The regular ten dollar dies for 1863.
Reverse: Similar to the regular dies design but with the addition of the motto GOD OUR TRUST on a scroll above the eagle.
Comment:
The design elements are fully struck, and the surfaces are generally problem-free for the grade. While struck as a proof, the bronzing has subdued the reflective qualities in the fields.
Provenance/Appearances:
From David Lawrence 12/1/2021; Prior Heritage Aug 2011 Chicago Signature / Lot #5240
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| J-352 20$
Copper motto on field |
United States
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$10 1863 J-352
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PCGS PF 64 Brown
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1863 $10 Ten Dollar
Judd-352, Pollock-424
Rarity: Low R.6, PR64 BN Bronzed
Ex Simpson
Struck in copper & Bronze with a reeded edge.
Obverse: The regular ten dollar dies for 1863.
Reverse: Similar to the regular dies design but with the addition of the motto GOD OUR TRUST placed directly on the field above the eagle.
Comment:
About two dozen copper examples are known and most have been bronzed, as this piece has. As with all these bronzed pieces, the surfaces are uniformly dark brown with just a hint of underlying reddish color. The strike is complete in all areas.
George Eckfeldt's journal notes the following with regard to the copper examples: “Nov 17th 1863. Struck 20 sets of copper 10 dollar pieces "God is our Trust".”
Provenance/Appearances:
From The Atherton Collection of U.S. Pattern Coins, Heritage May 2023 CSNS Signature® Auction / Lot #4937 , prior Ex: Important Selections from the Bob. R. Simpson Collection, Part II / Dallas Signature (Heritage, 11/2020), lot 3131.
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| J-371 2 Cent Piece |
United States
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2C 1864 J-371
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PCGS PF 65
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1864 2C
Judd-371, Pollock-440
Rarity: Low R.6, PR65
Ex: Benson
Struck in copper-nickel composition with a plain edge. (88 percent copper, 12 percent nickel) and the coin is slightly magnetic
Obverse/Reverse: Struck from the regular coinage dies with Large Motto.
Comment:
Splendid tan appearance with excellent eye appeal. Moderately reflective fields with sharp design features. Lighter gold in color than the French bronze alloy, with the devices especially frosty against the pristine mirror fields.
Both the obverse and the reverse are exceptional aside from a few minor reverse spots. Related off metal examples of this pattern were struck in nickel and aluminum composition.
Provenances/Appearances:
Private Sale Sept 2019; Prior From The Antigo Collection, Heritage Aug 2006 Denver, CO / Lot #1437; Heritage July 2004 New York, NY / Lot #7897; Benson Collection, Part Three (Ira & Larry Goldberg, 2/03) / lot 1799, notation purchased from Ira S. Reed from his auction of April 27, 1945 as lot 453 for $12.50.
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| J-387 1864 25 Cents
Transitional issue
IN GOD WE TRUST
Copper |
United States
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25C 1864 J-387
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NGC PF 65 BN
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1864 25C
Judd-387, Pollock-455
Rarity: High R.6 PF65 BN
Struck in copper with a reeded edge
Obverse: Struck from the regular obverse die for the Liberty Seated Quarter of the year 1864
Reverse: Paired with the regular reverse die of 1866 with the motto IN GOD WE TRUST above the eagle.
Comment:
The transitional patterns of 1863, 1864 and 1865 -with motto IN GOD WE TRUST were created as numismatic delicacies after the motto had been regularly adopted (in 1866) for general coinage. Specimens were made available to privileged numismatists and were struck in aluminum, copper, and silver. A full set of transitional patterns consists of the quarter dollar, half dollar, and dollar, with dates of 1863, 1864, and 1865. The method of distribution of these is not clear, but William K. Idler, a Philadelphia dealer who commenced trade in 1859, is a strong possibility. At the Mint these pieces were produced secretly, then filtered out into the numismatic marketplace by insiders who had access to coining equipment.
This piece is deep blue-brown toning overall with some slight golden accents at selected recesses of the design, particularly on the reverse.
Provenance/Appearances:
Private sale Jan 2022, Prior Stacks & Bowers August 2011 Chicago ANA Lot #9021, and
Stacks Nov 2006 Lot 1015 ( Passed)
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| J-391 50 Cent
Transitional in silver |
United States
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50C 1864 J-391
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PCGS PF 64
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1864 50C Half Dollar,
Judd-391, Pollock-459
Rarity: Low R.7, PR64
Struck in Silver with a reeded edge
Obverse: Struck from the regular obverse die for the Liberty Seated Half Dollar of the year 1864
Reverse: Paired with the regular reverse die of 1866 with the motto IN GOD WE TRUST above the eagle.
Comment:
Warmly patinated on both sides, the surfaces are layered in generally even silver-olive iridescence. More direct angles reveal some variation to the toning, generally in the form of mottled pale gold, apricot, and silver undertones. Such angles also call forth a uniformly mirrored finish. The strike is razor sharp in all areas, and outwardly distracting marks are not seen.
The uspatterns.com website calls this: "The so-called transitional half dollar using the reverse of 1866-1891. These and the other 'with motto' patterns of this date and also 1863 and possibly 1865 are actually restrikes made circa 1869 and into the early 1870s and were offered with restrikes of the other denominations in complete sets." About a dozen examples of this rarity are thought to exist in silver.
Provenance:
Private Sale ATG May 2020, Prior
- Stacks and Bowers August 2019 ANA - Session 7 - Rarities Night / Lot #5437 (PF63);
- Stacks Feb 2019 Baltimore / Lot #1207 (passed),
- From the Samuel J. Berngard Collection Stacks-Bowers Galleries 3/22/2012 The Rarities Night Auction
- Appears to be the piece in Superior 2/2/1993 /Lot # 1165 ($3875 PCGS PF62)
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| J-392 50 Cent
Transitional in copper |
United States
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50C 1864 J-392
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PCGS PF 64 Red Brown
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1864 50C Half Dollar,
Judd-392, Pollock-460
Rarity: Low R.7, PR64+ RB
Ex: Simpson.
Struck in copper with a reeded edge
Obverse: Struck from the regular obverse die for the Liberty Seated Half Dollar of the year 1864
Reverse: Paired with the regular reverse die of 1866 with the motto IN GOD WE TRUST above the eagle.
Comment:
These so-called transitional half dollars using the Motto reverse dies as coined in 1866,
These pieces were actually produced in the late 1860s through the early 1870s. About a dozen copper pieces are known. Just the slightest mellowing off of full Red, each side is vibrant with color and deeply mirrored. A few scattered spots of carbon prevent an even higher grade.
Provenance/Appearances:
Ex Bob Simpson Sale Heritage Sept 17 2020 Important Selections from The Bob R. Simpson Collection, Part I / Lot #10206; Prior
- The New Millennium Collection Heritage April 2006 Atlanta, GA (ANA) / Lot #893;
- Heritage Nov 2003 Signature Sale / Lot #11054
both above lots were PGCS PF64 Red
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| J-397 1$ |
United States
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S$1 1864 J-397
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PCGS PF 64 Red Brown
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1864 $1 Seated Dollar
Judd-397, Pollock-465
Rarity: R.6, PR64 RB.
Ex: Simpson.
Struck in copper with a reeded edge.
Obverse: The Liberty Seated design used in for the regular strikes for the year 1864.
Reverse: Similar to the regular design except with the motto IN GOD WE TRUST added above the eagle. This is the so-called transitional dollar with the With Motto reverse that was first adopted in 1866 .
Comment: The reverse clearly shows a scribe line above ST, but not above the E in UNITED. This matches the dies used for some 1871 patterns and regular issue proofs, thus establishing their striking period being later than 1864
Only a dozen or so examples are believed extant in copper. The surfaces are rich mint red with the occasional dab of blue interspersed. Sharply detailed throughout.
Provenance:
Ex: Bob Simpson Heritage Aug 2021 ANA WFOM Auction / Lot #3078
Prior Bowers & Merena May 1999 ( Harry W. Bass collection) / Lot # 1245 and purchased from Brinton T. Schorer, May 3, 1973
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| J-426 25C |
United States
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25C 1865 J-426
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NGC PF 65 RB
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1865 25C
Judd-426, Pollock-498,
Rarity: Low R.7, PR65RB CAC Endorsed
EX: Lemus
Struck in copper with a reeded edge.
Obverse: Liberty Seated same as regular design of 1865 & 1866
Reverse: Spread wing eagle with the motto IN GOD WE TRUST placed on a scroll in the reverse field above the eagle This is the same design as adopted a year later in 1866
Comment:.
Per USPATTERN>COM actually most of these are believed to be restrikes made circa 1869 and into the early 1870s and offered with restrikes of other denominations in complete sets
Sharp design elements are set against deeply reflective fields 50% red
Provenance/Appearances:
From Great Collections; Priors
- The Lemus Collection, Queller Family Collection Heritage Jan 2009 FUN / Lot #1635 (As NGCPF65 BN),
- Corrado Romano Estate (Stack's, 6/1987), lot 857.
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| J-430 50C |
United States
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50C 1865 J-430
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PCGS PF 62 Brown
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1865 50C
Judd-430, Pollock-503.
Rarity: High R.6, PR62BN, CAC Endorsed
Struck in Copper with Reeded Edge.
Obverse: The same design that the Mint used to produce regular issue 1865 Liberty Seated half dollars.
Reverse: Similar to the regular issue design of 1865, but with the addition of a scroll inscribed with the motto IN GOD WE TRUST in the field above the eagle. This is the design that the Mint adopted for regular issue Liberty Seated half dollar production in 1866.
Comment:
Warmly patinated olive-brown surfaces are sharply struck and smoother in hand than one might expect for the assigned grade. Subtle champagne-gold and pale pink undertones further enhance the eye appeal.
Although referred to as a transitional pattern, most specimens of Judd-430 were actually produced circa 1869 into the early 1870s for sale to contemporary collectors as part of pattern Proof sets that also included examples of the other denominations. About a dozen of these copper impressions are believed extant.
Provenance/Appearances:
From the E. Horatio Morgan Collection. Who acquired it August 1995, Stacks and Bowers August 2019 ANA - Session 5 /Lot 3442; Heritage Aug1995 (ANA) Lot #8250;
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| J-435 1$ |
United States
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S$1 1865 J-435
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PCGS PF 63 Brown
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1865 $1 Seated Dollar
Judd-435, Pollock-508
Rarity: Low R.7, PR63 BN
Struck in copper with a reeded edge.
Obverse: Die is the same as that of the regular issue 1865 Seated dollar
Reverse: Is that of the regular issue Seated dollar beginning 1866 with the motto IN GOD WE TRUST on a scroll over the eagle.
Comment:
About a dozen examples are known in copper with another 12 or so believed known in silver. The surfaces show subdued amber-brown patina with a few inoffensive carbon spots near the borders
Provenance/Appearances:
From Heritage Aug 2019 ANA World's Fair of Money - Chicago / Lot #4474: Prior
- Heritage Feb 2006 Long Beach / Lot #2482 (Passed);
- Heritage Aug 19 1995 American Numismatic Association Sale / Lot #8251;
- Bowers & Merena Jan 1999 (The Rarities Sale Dr. Wallace Lee Collection.) Lot #305
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