PC-5c-1866-04, 05 & 06 Pre-Cud

Description

A remarkable multi-sequence pre-cud combining three distinct retained die cracks — sequences 04, 05, and 06 — on a single working die, this 1866 Shield Nickel with Rays variety documents extensive die failure across multiple rim locations. Three separate pre-cuds on one die indicates severe stress fracturing, with retained cracks at three points along the rim before the die was retired. The host coin is the 1866 Shield Nickel with Rays — the inaugural year and original design of the Shield Nickel series, the first base-metal five-cent coin in United States history. The distinctive rays between stars on the reverse were included only in 1866 and part of 1867 before removal to improve die life, making the Rays subtype effectively a single-year design. Designed by James B. Longacre, the obverse displays the Union shield symbolizing national unity during Reconstruction, while the reverse features a large numeral 5 surrounded by stars and the short-lived rays. Struck in 75% copper and 25% nickel at 5.0 grams. Cataloged by Cuds on Coins — the designation reads PC (pre-cud), 5c (denomination), 1866 (year), and 04, 05 & 06 (three retained die cracks on a single die). Examine multiple rim locations for the raised hairline fractures that distinguish pre-cuds from full cud breaks.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Murphytam on ebay
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References