The present piece is both an original pattern, struck in copper, and one of those true pieces of art as well. It was struck shortly before the Civil War, when both gold and silver coins were still frequently seen in circulation. This circulation did provide the Mint with several unexpected problems. One of these was the practice of slicing a gold coin in half, scooping part of the gold in the center of the coin, and subsequently replacing it with a metal of lesser value. The pattern that is offered here was created to show one of the ideas for solving that problem.

This coin has the size of a regular eagle, or $10 gold piece. It is much thinner, having the amount of gold of a half eagle or $5 gold piece. The obverse shows a head of Liberty, with 3 stars on her diadem. The reverse shows an eagle not used on any circulating coinage, holding a scroll with the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM above its head. Although it does have an unnatural look, the overall display looks very pleasing.

The present offering is the finest of just 3 pieces graded with the Red-Brown color designation. Large amounts of original Mint red color is retained, but when tilted the coin tones to a handsome and original blue and violet color. As can be expected, the eye-appeal is exceptional and no major marks are seen on either side. Approximately 20 pieces remain to exist in all grades, with many pieces in gilt. This piece offered here is no doubt very near the top of the condition census, and this is a rare opportunity for the pattern specialist.