1870 Proof Half Dollar Pattern - J-995

Coin Details

Auction Record

$16,200 PR65 02-25-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

Among the most unusual pieces in the entire 1870 Standard Silver half dollar series, J-995 is a die trial struck in nickel with a reeded edge. Nickel was rarely used in the 1870 Standard Silver program, which focused primarily on silver, copper, and aluminum compositions. The choice of nickel for this die trial may reflect an interest in the nickel-based coinage then being advocated by industrialist Joseph Wharton, whose lobbying efforts had already led to the introduction of the three-cent nickel and Shield nickel five-cent piece. Only a handful of nickel strikings appear across the entire 1870 pattern output.

Rarity Notes

R-8. Very rare, estimated 3 or fewer examples known.

Cross References

Judd-995, Pollock-1125