1866 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-482

Coin Details

Auction Record

$10,925 PR63 02-09-2006 Heritage Auctions

Description

Among the numerous 1866 Shield Nickel composition variants, J-482 tests an alloy that imparts different visual and physical characteristics to the adopted five-cent design. The Mint's testing methodology was deliberate and thorough — each alloy was evaluated for its response to the stamping press, its appearance immediately after striking, its projected behavior during circulation, and its resistance to corrosion and environmental tarnishing. Coins in actual use are handled thousands of times, dropped, scraped, and exposed to moisture, skin oils, and atmospheric pollution. An alloy that looked beautiful in the proof state but tarnished rapidly or wore unevenly would be unsuitable for a denomination expected to circulate for many years. These practical considerations drove the testing program documented by J-482 and its companion varieties.

Rarity Notes

R.6. Approximately 15-20 examples survive.

Cross References

Pollock-3550