1870 $1 J-1003, CAM PR64+ CAM Certification #26315583, PCGS #416749

Ron Guth

Judd 1003 is a pattern for a Silver Dollar, made all the more desirable because it is struck in the intended metal.  The obverse was designed by William Barber, who took over as Chief Engraver following the death of James Longacre in early 1869.  Barber's take on the Seated Liberty design placed the shield behind Liberty's legs and the pole surmounted by the Liberty cap must have been stuck in the ground, because Miss Liberty no longer holds it in her hand.  The reverse is the legacy design with the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" on a ribbon above the eagle, as seen on the regular Silver Dollars of the year.  On Judd 1003, the edge is plain.

This is a very rare pattern, of which very few are known.  Bowers lists this as a low Rarity 7 (7 to 12 known) in the 10th edition of Judd.