1866 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-496

Coin Details

Auction Record

$10,350 PR64 01-01-2003 Bowers & Merena

Description

Another data point in the extraordinary 1866 alloy study, J-496 pushes the boundaries of what metals might serve for the nation's five-cent coin. The historical context of these experiments is important: base-metal coinage was still a relatively new phenomenon in American numismatics. The first base-metal coins struck by the US Mint were the large copper cents beginning in 1793, and it was not until the 1850s that smaller base-metal denominations like the Flying Eagle and Indian Head cents appeared. The nickel five-cent piece represented a bold step — a base-metal coin at a higher denomination than any previous American coin had attempted. This novelty justified the extensive testing documented by J-496 and the scores of companion varieties.

Rarity Notes

R.6. Approximately 15-20 examples estimated.

Cross References

Pollock-3564