Patterns (1852)

History and Overview

Beginning in 1849, large quantities of gold bullion from the Californian gold fields reached the East, and many coins were struck from this metal. On the international market, silver became “rare” in relation to gold, and the historic ratio of values was disrupted. In 1851, 1852, and early 1853, federal silver coins disappeared from circulation and went into the hands of speculators, hoarders, and melters, as they were worth more in bullion value than the face value stamped on them. In 1851, the silver three-cent piece or trime reached circulation and was successful, using a new alloy of 75% silver and 25% copper (instead of the regular standard of 90% silver, 10% copper), with a metal value insufficient to attract hoarders. Accordingly, silver three-cent pieces minted during this time remained in circulation.

In 1852, thoughts were given to producing a half dollar in gold, as the gold dollar was very popular and as silver half dollars were not to be found in commerce. A few patterns were produced at the Mint, from combining a blank half dime die with a reverse die of the half dime, striking pieces containing 50 cents’ worth of gold, but with a large perforation in the center to enable the pieces to be of a diameter that would be comfortable to handle. The concept proved unfeasible and was dropped.

Gold dollars were produced in the ring or annular format, also with perforated centers, in an effort to make this coin more easy to use in circulation. An extensive listing of pattern coins exists today from these experiments: rare originals plus elusive restrikes.

In addition, Proof dies of the 1852 Liberty Seated silver dollar were employed to produce restrikes for sale to collectors. Most were made in silver (not listed here), but a few were struck in copper, the latter being J-134.

Collecting Perspective

Collectors focus on 1852 pattern gold dollars of this year, existing in several designs. Gold impressions are known for four different die combinations and are exceedingly rare today. Quite collectible are others, mostly restrikes, in metals and alloys such as copper and copper-nickel. Certain restrikes are from dies that show cracks.

The copper impressions of the 1852 silver dollar are exceedingly rare today and in the same league as the copper impressions of the 1851 Liberty Seated dollar (J-132). These are of primary interest to silver dollar specialists who enjoy having these curious and rare pieces to accompany their silver issues.