1 Cent Pattern, United States

The 1861 United States 1 Cent Pattern is a historic and extremely rare Civil War-era pattern coin struck in copper-nickel with CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA · 1861 on the obverse and “1 CENT” within a wreath on the reverse. Designed and engraved by Robert Lovett Jr., these coins were privately produced as Confederate prototype cents but never officially issued, with only about a dozen originals known today. They are highly prized by specialists, with originals fetching significant prices at auction. Later restrikes were also made post-war but are less valuable.

Key points:
• Confederate prototype cent struck in 1861 in copper-nickel.
• Obverse: Liberty head with CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA · 1861.
• Reverse: “1 CENT” within wreath.
• Only a very small number of originals exist; highly collectible.
• Post-war restrikes exist but are more common.