1882 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-1676

Coin Details

Auction Record

$46,000 PR64 03-10-2005 Bowers & Merena

Description

Second nickel pattern variety from 1882, continuing Barber's systematic exploration of the Liberty Head five-cent design. The obverse retains the leftward-facing Liberty Head with coronet, but this variety introduces modifications to the arrangement of stars and legends around the portrait, testing different spatial relationships between design elements. The reverse displays the Roman numeral V within the wreath, with adjustments to the wreath composition or the positioning of the surrounding inscriptions. Struck in copper-nickel, the standard alloy intended for production coinage, this pattern provides a more accurate preview of how the finished coin would appear in circulation. The difference in metal from J-1675's copper composition demonstrates the Mint's practice of testing designs across multiple alloys, as each metal produced subtly different visual effects in the striking process. Barber's meticulous attention to the spacing and proportion of individual design elements is evident in the incremental changes between sequential Judd numbers.

Rarity Notes

R-6 to R-7 (Very Rare to Extremely Rare). Estimated 8-12 specimens surviving.

Cross References

Judd J-1676, Pollock P-1878