1866 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-467

Coin Details

Auction Record

$9,000 PR64+ 09-17-2020 Heritage Auctions

Description

Marking the transition from head-type designs to the shield concept, J-467 is among the earliest pattern varieties to feature the shield motif that would ultimately be adopted for the new five-cent coin. Longacre's shield design drew inspiration from the successful two-cent piece shield obverse introduced in 1864, adapting the patriotic symbolism of the Union shield for a larger denomination. The shield — with its horizontal and vertical stripes representing the states and federal government — carried powerful meaning during the Reconstruction era, symbolizing the preserved Union after the Civil War. This early shield variant may differ from the final adopted design in details of the shield's ornamentation, the motto placement, or the reverse arrangement, documenting the evolution from concept to finished production die.

Rarity Notes

R.6. Approximately 15-20 examples estimated.

Cross References

Pollock-3535