| On March 26, 2007, I spent the day at S&N Labs, where Dr. Neil Spingarn ran SEM-EDX tests on 25 more 1854 and 1855 pattern Flying Eagle cents. The results are interesting and consistent with the results of my first submission in that there seems to be a wider range of metallic varieties for the bronze 1855s. MY OFFER TO OWNERS OF 1854 & 1855 LARGE FLYING EAGLE PATTERNS As well, though both the J-170a and J-171a are described in the 9th edition of the Judd book as R8 (2-3 known), test results confirm neither is rarer than R7, and it is more likely each is an R6. Please make sure you do not pay a premium for an untested J-170a or 171a, or at the very least be cognizant of their true rarity. Although the researchers of the Judd book are the best in the field, this is the first time this large volume of 1854 and 1855 pattern Flying Eagle cents has been tested. It is truly impossible to determine a pattern's metallic composition, and consequently, its Judd number, by visual appearance alone. Even the experts can't tell. In my first group of coins that S&N tested in 2005, three of the four coins slabbed as J-167 (copper) tested out as J-168 (bronze). Of the 45 LFEs submitted in slabs, 40% (18) had been misattributed, and consequently, changed Judd numbers.Do not be fooled by a representation by a dealer or the print on a slab. SEM-EDX testing is necessary. I hope to test ten to fifteen more LFEs in early-2008. More info to come. Rick |
| 1854-1855 Pattern Flying Eagle Cent Research |
Rick Kay Rare Coins/Patterncoins.com
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