1883 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-1717

Coin Details

Auction Record

PR66 Ultra Cameo (NGC) sold through Heritage Auctions.

Description

One of the most historically significant patterns in the 1883 series, J-1717 features a reverse design identical to the "No CENTS" production type but with the critical addition of a scroll bearing the word CENTS at the base of the Roman numeral V, above the wreath. This modification was created in direct response to the racketeer nickel fraud that erupted shortly after the original "No CENTS" coins entered circulation in early 1883 — unscrupulous individuals discovered that the new nickel was nearly identical in diameter to the five-dollar gold half eagle, and by gold-plating the coins and reeding the edges, they could pass them to unsuspecting merchants as five-dollar gold pieces. The Mint received reports of the fraud and Chief Engraver Barber quickly prepared modified dies adding the denomination in words. J-1717 documents this correction in its pattern form, struck in nickel with a plain edge. The pattern served as the prototype for the "With CENTS" reverse that replaced the original design partway through 1883, creating the two distinct varieties — No CENTS and With CENTS — that have fascinated collectors ever since. Only about twelve to eighteen examples of J-1717 survive, making the pattern far rarer than either production variety it bridges.

Rarity Notes

R-6 (Rare). Approximately 12-18 examples estimated. Heritage Auctions has handled PR66 Ultra Cameo NGC specimens of this historically important variety.

Cross References

Judd J-1717, Pollock P-1922