1867 Assay Commission Medal - JK-AC-3, Nickel, Longacre Pattern(Special Strike)

Coin Details

Description

The 1867 Assay Commission medal JK-AC-3 in nickel with a Special Strike designation represents one of the most unusual composition variants in the early Assay Commission series. This piece was struck in nickel, a metal that the Philadelphia Mint had recently adopted for regular coinage with the introduction of the Shield nickel in 1866. The Special Strike designation indicates this was produced with extra care, using polished dies and carefully prepared planchets to achieve a superior finish. Chief Engraver James Barton Longacre's design for JK-AC-3 takes on a distinctive appearance in nickel, which produces a harder, more durable impression than bronze or silver. The metal's gray-white color and resistance to tarnishing gave it an appealing permanence, while its hardness meant the die details could be reproduced with exceptional sharpness. The Mint's experimentation with nickel for medals paralleled its exploration of the metal for coinage, as nickel alloys were being evaluated for various denominations during this transitional period. The Special Strike designation elevates this piece above a standard production medal, placing it in the category of carefully crafted presentation pieces. Nickel strikings of Assay Commission medals from the 1860s are exceptionally rare, as the metal was used primarily on an experimental basis for non-coinage items. This JK-AC-3 variant documents the Mint's willingness to explore the full range of available metals for its annual commission pieces.

Rarity Notes

JK-AC-3 (1867) in nickel, Special Strike. Nickel composition medals from this era are extremely rare. The Special Strike designation indicates enhanced production quality.

Cross References

PCGS #972459; JK-AC-3; 1867 Assay Commission