1865 Nickel Pattern - J-A1865-2, C.1865

Coin Details

Description

This pattern bears the supplementary Judd catalog designation J-A1865-2, indicating it was added to the standard reference after the original sequential numbering was established. Struck during the final year of the Civil War, this experimental nickel-denomination piece represents part of the broader effort at the Philadelphia Mint to develop and refine coinage in the five-cent range. The year 1865 was pivotal for nickel coinage, as the Shield Nickel design was being finalized for adoption the following year. This pattern provides evidence of the various design concepts and metallic compositions under consideration as Mint Director James Pollock and Chief Engraver James B. Longacre worked toward a viable five-cent coin to replace the unpopular half dime. The context of wartime currency disruption, with fractional currency notes still circulating widely, made the development of small-denomination coins a legislative priority.

Rarity Notes

Very rare. As a supplementary catalog entry, population data is limited. Non-Judd patterns with alternate catalog numbers are typically known from only a handful of specimens.

Cross References

Judd-A1865-2; C.1865