1866 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-489

Coin Details

Auction Record

$6,900 PR66 02-13-2008 Heritage Auctions

Description

Approaching the midpoint of the Shield Nickel composition series, J-489 represents a testing program that had by now evaluated dozens of alloy formulations. The breadth of this experimentation was unusual even by the standards of the pattern-prolific 1860s Mint, reflecting the novel challenge of designing the first American base-metal five-cent coin. Earlier small-denomination base-metal coins — the large copper cent, the flying eagle cent, and the Indian Head cent — had used well-established copper alloys, but the nickel content specified for the new five-cent piece introduced unfamiliar metallurgical variables. Nickel's extreme hardness compared to copper required different die preparation, annealing temperatures, and striking pressures, all of which were explored through these systematic experiments.

Rarity Notes

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

Cross References

Pollock-3557