1882 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-1682

Coin Details

Auction Record

$4,715 PR64 01-09-1998 Heritage Auctions

Description

Eighth variety in the 1882 nickel pattern series, furthering the systematic design evaluation that characterized this unprecedented program. The obverse features the Liberty Head portrait with possible modifications to the bust truncation, hair detail, or star arrangement, while the reverse V-in-wreath design may incorporate changes to the wreath binding, ribbon details, or text spacing. Each sequential Judd number in this series represents a deliberate design choice that was tested, evaluated, and either retained or discarded. The sheer number of varieties — twenty-three nickel patterns in a single year — reflects the importance that Mint Superintendent Snowden and Treasury Department officials placed on getting the Shield Nickel's replacement right. The Shield Nickel had been criticized since its introduction in 1866 for its complex design and difficulty in striking, and its successor needed to be both aesthetically pleasing and practically producible.

Rarity Notes

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

Cross References

Judd J-1682, Pollock P-1884