1866 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-508

Coin Details

Auction Record

$7,344 PR66BN 07-26-2018 Legend Rare Coin Auctions

Description

Among the later entries in the 1866 Shield Nickel composition series, J-508 tests an experimental alloy as the testing program approaches its conclusion. The patterns in this upper range of the series are among the scarcest individual varieties, as the Mint typically produced fewer examples of later compositions once the primary evaluation had established the adopted alloy's superiority. For collectors who pursue a comprehensive representation of the 1866 nickel pattern program, these high-numbered varieties present the greatest challenge, both in terms of rarity and identification — accurate attribution requires precise compositional analysis to distinguish between varieties that appear similar under casual inspection.

Rarity Notes

R.7. Approximately 5-12 examples exist.

Cross References

Pollock-3576