1883 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-1708

Coin Details

Auction Record

$19,550 PR65 07-27-2008 Stack's

Description

Another entry in the alloy-composition reverse series, J-1708 pairs the Liberty Head obverse with a reverse displaying the metallic ratio within a wreath, struck in a composition distinct from J-1707. The 1883 pattern program tested at least four different alloy ratios for the five-cent piece: pure nickel, 75% nickel with 25% copper, 50% nickel with 50% copper, and 33% nickel with 67% copper. Each composition offered different trade-offs in terms of striking quality, wear resistance, color, and production cost. Pure nickel was extremely hard and difficult to strike, producing weak details at high points but offering superior wear resistance. The adopted 75/25 copper-nickel alloy balanced strikability with durability and had the added advantage of being the established composition since the Shield nickel's introduction in 1866. The Mint's willingness to test dramatically different alloy ratios in 1883 indicates that the composition question remained genuinely open during the design development process, despite seventeen years of successful production with the standard copper-nickel formula.

Rarity Notes

R-6 to R-7 (Rare to Very Rare). Approximately 10-15 examples believed extant.

Cross References

Judd J-1708, Pollock P-1913