This 1860 $5 Pattern coin, designed by James Barton Longacre, is a unique piece of numismatic history from the United States Mint in Philadelphia. As part of the Patterns & Trial Coins series, it showcases the experimental phase of coin design, which aimed to explore innovative concepts before settling on final production. The coin is crafted from copper, a material chosen for its malleability and suitability for trial pieces. This specific coin features a reeded edge, a characteristic that aids in distinguishing it from counterfeits and adds to its aesthetic appeal. It is classified as a proof coin, indicating that it was struck with particularly high quality, often to test the designs before mass production. Despite having a reported mintage of zero, this does not diminish its significance; rather, it highlights its status as a rarity among collectors. With no specified weight, diameter, or mint mark, the coin stands as an intriguing example of early American numismatic experimentation. As a piece of art and history, the 1860 $5 Pattern coin represents not only the craftsmanship of its designer but also a moment in time when the United States was refining its coinage for circulation. Its contributions to the numismatic field make it a sought-after item for enthusiasts and collectors.
| currency | USD |
| currency-amount | 5 |
| designer | James Barton Longacre |
| diameter | 0 |
| edge-type | Reeded |
| height | 0 |
| material | Copper |
| mint-mark | None |
| mintage | 0 |
| type | Coins |
| weight | 0 |
| width | 0 |
| year-display | 1860 |