1880 Goloid Metric Dollar Pattern PCGS PR-67 Red Brown J-1646

1880 Metric Dollar in Copper — Judd-1646, Pollock-1846 | R.7 | PCGS PR-67 RB | Finest Known

Among the most visually commanding pattern issues of the late 19th century, this 1880 Metric Dollar in copper, Judd-1646 / Pollock-1846, is tied for finest known at PR-67 RB — PCGS has certified none finer. William Barber's obverse portrays Liberty facing left, her coronet bordered by a delicate string of pearls; the reverse displays an elaborate partial wreath of cotton and corn tied at the base with a ribbon, the motto DEO EST GLORIA set within an ornate cartouche above, struck with a reeded edge. The design traces its lineage directly to Barber's celebrated 1877 Half Union patterns, among the most ambitious decorative programs in the American series.

Metric Dollars were produced in several compositions — silver or goloid, copper, and aluminum — but copper survivors are especially elusive at R.7. More than a dozen examples are known across all grades, yet specimens retaining this degree of original mint color are genuinely rare, as the series is typically encountered well-worn or heavily toned.

The surfaces show very little color that is not red. Only slight peripheral blue and deeper cherry-red are visible around portions of the obverse rim, consistent with careful, undisturbed preservation. Deeply mirrored fields and a fully struck, sharp-in-every-detail strike complete an exceptional technical presentation.