Pattern coins are trial pieces created to test new designs, compositions, or minting techniques before official release. In the United States, the 1866 "P 20" pattern coin refers to a specific design for a twenty-dollar gold piece, which was never officially minted for circulation. These coins are highly prized by collectors due to their rarity, historical significance, and the insight they provide into the minting process during that period. Patterns often feature distinctive designs that differ from final production coins, making them a unique area of interest within numismatics.
| Item | Denomination | Series | Year | Mint | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1866 P$20 Copper J-549 BN | P$20 | Patterns | 1866 | Philadelphia |