J663 - J-663 1868 Eagle Pattern - 1868 $10 Pattern NGC PF65 CAM CAC. This lovely, rare, aluminum 1868 Pattern Eagle has cameo contrast because of the light slivery devices against the dark gray fields. The coin is not oxidized, and the surfaces of this 1868 Eagle Pattern are highly preserved with hairlines visible only through magnification. The strike is full and sharp, and every detail on this lovely piece really pops.

Designed by James B. Longacre, the coin shows a head of Liberty facing left wearing a coronet inscribed LIBERTY. Thirteen six-pointed stars surround her with the date below. The usual coronet design has been modified on this coin so that it more resembles Longacres double eagle motif. Liberty has a rounded chin, fuller cheek and looser hair that is tied in a ribbon at the back. Her tiara has dots at the top and a broad open area beneath. On the reverse, the eagle and shield are more stylized and smaller than the regular issue. A ribbon has the motto IN GOD WE TRUST. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is around the eagle with the denomination, written as TEN D., below. The coin has dentils around the periphery on both sides and has a reeded edge.

James Barton Longacre was born in Pennsylvania in 1794. He became an apprentice to a bookseller and then a banknote engraver in Philadelphia. In 1819 he worked on his own as an engraver and made metal plates for bank notes and book illustrations. His works included one on stage personalities and another on the signers of the Declaration of Independence. In 1844, through the influence of John C. Calhoun, Longacre was made Chief Engraver at the Mint, where he succeeded the late Christian Gobrecht. Longacres experience was limited, but he was a talented artist. By 1849 he was able to create the gold dollar and double eagle, the design of which lasted until well into the twentieth century.

One of Longacres associates, Chief Coiner Franklin Peale, opposed Longacres appointment and became an obstructionist. Peale ran a private medal-making business using Mint facilities, and he felt that Longacres presence would jeopardize it. In 1854 Peale was fired by President Franklin Pearce, and Longacres life became easier. Longacre remained Chief Engraver until his death in 1869. Coins from Longacres estate were auctioned in 1870. They included patterns, coins of Chile, and regularly issued coins.

The R-6 designation indicates that there are 21 to 30 pieces known to exist in aluminum. The pattern was also struck in copper and gold. In its population report, NGC shows 5 in PF65 Cameo with 1 better. At CAC, as of September 2012, the present piece is the finest known.