1865 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-418

Coin Details

Auction Record

$16,100 PR66 05-25-2005 American Numismatic Rarities

Description

Judd-418, Pollock-488, is the third Shield Nickel prototype. This variety continues the refinement of what would become the first five-cent coin struck in copper-nickel alloy. The five-cent denomination had previously existed only as the half dime in silver, and the creation of a base-metal five-cent piece represented a fundamental shift in American coinage philosophy. The shield design chosen for the obverse echoed the two-cent piece's shield motif, creating visual unity across the two denominations most directly tied to the wartime reform of American coinage.

Rarity Notes

Rarity-7. Approximately 5-10 specimens known.

Cross References

Judd-418; Pollock-488; Shield Nickel prototype