Whitman Expo
-
Patterns (1974) Values
Greysheet & Red Book® PRICE GUIDE
Sort by
Sponsor
Sponsor
Sponsor
Sponsor
Sponsor
Legal Disclaimer
The prices listed in our database are intended to be used as an indication only. Users are strongly encouraged to seek multiple sources of pricing before making a final determination of value. CDN Publishing is not responsible for typographical or database-related errors. Your use of this site indicates full acceptance of these terms.
The Patterns (1974) series of Pattern Coinage in the U.S. Coins contains 2 distinct entries.
History and Overview
In 1973, the Philadelphia Mint tested seven different alloys of aluminum for use in coining Lincoln cents, employing dies of the regular design but dated 1974. It was desired to perfect a composition of 96% aluminum plus other metal(s) for durability. At the time, the price of copper was rising on international markets, and the Treasury Department was fearful that bronze cents might become impractical to coin.
After this testing, 1,570,000 aluminum cents were made. Several dozen of these were distributed to members of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee and the House Banking and Currency Committee. Other pieces were given out as curiosities and souvenirs to interested officials by Mint Director Mary Brooks. No request was made that the coins be returned. Soon afterward, news of their existence reached the numismatic press, and Brooks attempted to retrieve as many as possible. Only a few were found.
Collecting Perspective
Today, one confirmed specimen in private hands has been publicized (recently encapsulated by ICG with a grade of AU-58). Undoubtedly others are waiting in the wings to see if they are “legal” to hold, although logic suggests that there should be no question in this regard, as the pieces were distributed freely.
See More See Less
Loading more ...Legal Disclaimer
The prices listed in our database are intended to be used as an indication only. Users are strongly encouraged to seek multiple sources of pricing before making a final determination of value. CDN Publishing is not responsible for typographical or database-related errors. Your use of this site indicates full acceptance of these terms.
Available on Greysheet Marketplace
View All
Auction Ends: 4/29/2026
Auction Ends: 5/1/2026
Auction Ends: 4/29/2026
Auction Ends: 5/1/2026
Dealer Directory
View All Dealers
Greysheet News
View All News
All four gold stellas, 1933 Indian eagle and featured collections among highlights at April 29-May 2 event.
![Red Book Podcast with John Feigenbaum and Jeff Garrett [Video]](https://images.greysheet.com/l/blogs/20260417/b30b4ba0-dc36-41c3-9c77-c26fa7c27498.png)
You don't want to miss this conversation about Mega Red X & the 2027 Red Book
Auction records were smashed during an incredible week of auctions hosted March 9-17, 2026 by preeminent rare coin auction firm, Stack's Bowers Galleries.
Events
View All Events
DAVID LAWRENCE RARE COINS
Sunday, February 1, 2026
https://www.greatcollections.com/Auction-Archive
Sunday, February 1, 2026
Embassy Suites
Sunday, February 1, 2026