1866 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-491

Coin Details

Auction Record

$7,050 PR66 01-07-2015 Heritage Auctions

Description

Entering the second half of the 1866 Shield Nickel alloy testing program, J-491 continues to explore experimental compositions for the new five-cent coin. The patterns from J-491 through J-512 represent some of the more unusual alloy formulations tested, as the Mint had already evaluated the most conventional options in earlier numbers. These later tests may include alloys with higher concentrations of nickel, experimental copper-zinc blends, or metals rarely used in coinage such as tin or German silver. The Shield design remained unchanged throughout — Longacre's bold shield obverse and stars-with-rays reverse provided consistent comparison points for evaluating each alloy's effect on striking quality, color, and surface characteristics.

Rarity Notes

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

Cross References

Pollock-3559