1866 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-473

Coin Details

Auction Record

$9,000 PR65 03-01-1980 Bowers & Ruddy

Description

Judd-473 represents the adopted Shield Nickel design in its intended copper-nickel composition — the exact combination of design and alloy that would enter mass production and circulate by the millions. The obverse displays the large Union shield with prominent horizontal and vertical stripes, two crossed arrows behind, an olive branch below, and IN GOD WE TRUST on a scroll above. The date 1866 appears at the bottom. The reverse features a bold numeral 5 surrounded by thirteen stars with decorative rays radiating between them. This "with rays" reverse, while visually dramatic, would prove troublesome in production — the rays caused excessive die stress, leading to frequent die failures. Despite this issue, the design was put into production immediately, and the Shield Nickel with rays became one of the most distinctive coins in American history.

Rarity Notes

R.5 to R.6. Approximately 20-30 examples known.

Cross References

Pollock-3541