1866 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-515

Coin Details

Description

This proof pattern from the extended Shield Nickel series tests one of the more unusual compositions in the 1866 program. The patterns numbered from J-513 onward were produced in smaller quantities than the core testing series, making them among the scarcest individual varieties in the entire 1866 nickel pattern oeuvre. Their rarity has made complete attribution challenging for generations of numismatists — distinguishing between similar-looking alloys requires either destructive analysis or non-invasive techniques like X-ray fluorescence, and many examples have been cataloged under generic descriptions rather than precise compositional identifications.

Rarity Notes

R.7. Approximately 5-10 examples known.

Cross References

Pollock-3583