1866 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-519

Coin Details

Auction Record

$45,600 PR64 02-25-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

Among the later experimental entries in the 1866 Shield Nickel pattern series, J-519 tests a composition from the program's outer limits. These high-numbered varieties collectively demonstrate that the 1866 testing program was not merely about finding a workable alloy for the five-cent coin — it was also about establishing a comprehensive reference library of how different metals behave when struck with coinage dies. This knowledge base would serve the Mint for decades as new denominations were proposed, existing specifications were revisited, and foreign governments consulted American expertise on their own coinage challenges.

Rarity Notes

R.7. Estimated 5-10 examples known.

Cross References

Pollock-3587