1869 Pattern Gold Dollar. Judd-766, Pollock-851. Rarity-7+. Copper. Reeded Edge. Proof-65+ BN (PCGS).
The obverse and reverse designs are those used by the Mint to strike regular issue 1869 gold dollars. Rich olive-copper patina supports intermingled powder blue highlights that are discernible to the persistent viewer. The surfaces exhibit a soft satin finish with semi-reflectivity evident in the fields upon closer inspection. Fully struck, as expected for a Proof, and worthy of the premium Gem designation from PCGS. Judd-766 is one of many pattern types that, per numismatic tradition, have been described as regular die trial pieces produced prior to the year's coinage in the authorized metal. Modern numismatic scholarship, as summed up by the uspatterns.com website, holds that these coins were probably deliberately struck for the numismatic trade and distributed to contemporary collectors as part of off-metal Proof sets. Regardless, Judd-766 is a noteworthy rarity with only a half dozen or so specimens believed extant.
PCGS# 60997.
Ex Simpson Collection; Heritage's ANA Signature Auction of August 2021, lot 3113.

Estimate: $15000