1866 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-470

Coin Details

Auction Record

$5,875 PR66 12-15-2016 Legend Rare Coin Auctions

Description

Another proof striking in the early shield development series, J-470 captures a moment in the design's evolution when multiple competing reverse configurations were being evaluated alongside the emerging shield obverse. Longacre was simultaneously working on the shield design for the five-cent nickel and preparing motto dies for all other denominations — a remarkable workload that speaks to both the urgency of the 1866 coinage program and the Chief Engraver's capacity. The five-cent nickel was arguably Longacre's most consequential new denomination, as it would become one of the most widely circulated American coins for decades to come. Every detail of these experimental dies received careful scrutiny before production tooling was finalized.

Rarity Notes

R.6 to R.7. Approximately 10-15 examples survive.

Cross References

Pollock-3538