1870 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-805

Coin Details

Auction Record

$10,500 PR67BN 02-25-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

Leading the four-variety nickel pattern group, J-805 was struck in copper-nickel and features the Shield obverse with rays paired with a reverse displaying a large numeral 5 within a circle of stars. The Shield nickel had entered production only four years earlier in 1866, and the rays on the obverse had been removed after just one year of production due to striking difficulties. Barber's decision to revisit the with-rays design on this 1870 pattern indicates either continued experimentation with the abandoned element or the use of available leftover dies.

Rarity Notes

R-6 to R-7. Approximately 10-20 examples estimated.

Cross References

Judd-805, Pollock-898