1865 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-416

Coin Details

Auction Record

$20,000 PR65 03-01-1980 Bowers & Ruddy

Description

The 1865 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-416 is a proof nickel struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Civil War Patterns (1860-1865) series. The obverse features experimental designs reflecting wartime themes including patriotic motifs and alternative compositions and the reverse displays various experimental designs. Produced during the Civil War, when coin hoarding caused severe shortages and the Mint experimented with new compositions to keep coins in circulation. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Auction record: $20,000 PR65 03-01-1980 Bowers & Ruddy. Struck in other. Cataloged as PCGS #60598.

Rarity Notes

Rarity-6 to R-7. Approximately 10-15 specimens known. Highly sought after as prototypes of the adopted Shield Nickel design.

Cross References

Judd-416; Pollock-486; Shield Nickel prototype