1866 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-486

Coin Details

Auction Record

$22,325 PR64 01-04-2017 Heritage Auctions

Description

J-486 advances the Shield Nickel alloy program with another experimental composition. The Mint's pattern production during 1866 was among the most prolific in American history, driven by the simultaneous needs to design the new five-cent coin, add IN GOD WE TRUST to all other denominations, and keep regular production running. Despite this demanding workload, the quality of individual pattern strikings remained high — each piece was carefully struck from polished dies on specially prepared planchets, producing coins of exceptional detail and surface quality. The proof format used for these patterns was not merely cosmetic; it ensured that even the finest die details were captured, allowing thorough evaluation of how each alloy reproduced the intricate shield and star elements.

Rarity Notes

R.6. Approximately 15-20 examples estimated.

Cross References

Pollock-3554