1866 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-509a

Coin Details

Description

The "a" variant of J-509, struck in an alternative composition to the primary J-509 striking. By the upper reaches of the 1866 Shield Nickel series, even the "a" variants represent significant numismatic rarities, as production quantities for both primary and subsidiary strikings diminished in the later portions of the program. This piece provides an additional data point in the Mint's metallic comparison, testing a composition that extends the evaluation beyond whatever alloy J-509 explored. Collectors who encounter this variety should note that its attribution depends on precise compositional identification, as the visual differences between some late-sequence alloy variants can be subtle.

Rarity Notes

R.7 to R.8. Estimated 3-8 examples known.

Cross References

Pollock-3577