1866 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-521

Coin Details

Auction Record

$38,400 PR62 04-25-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

J-521 represents another variant in the extended 1866 Shield Nickel experimental series. Pattern coins from this era were distributed through several channels — some went directly to Mint officials and Congressional sponsors, others were included in annual proof sets sold to collectors, and still others were exchanged between Mint employees and favored numismatists in what amounted to an informal secondary market. This distribution network, while small by modern standards, ensured that multiple examples of each variety entered private hands, creating the collector base that has sustained interest in these patterns across generations.

Rarity Notes

R.6 to R.7. Approximately 10-15 examples survive.

Cross References

Pollock-3589