1883 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-1718

Coin Details

Description

This proof pattern presents the corrected "With CENTS" reverse design in a different metallic composition from the nickel version documented by J-1717. The reverse retains the scroll bearing CENTS at the base of the Roman numeral V, the modification that solved the racketeer nickel problem by making the denomination unambiguous. Striking the corrected reverse dies in an alternate composition — copper — served the Mint's standard practice of producing off-metal specimens for evaluation and potential distribution to collectors and officials. The copper or alternate-metal version of the "With CENTS" pattern would have displayed the design details with different visual characteristics from the nickel version, as softer metals typically produce sharper strikes with more pronounced frost on the devices. The existence of J-1718 confirms that the Mint followed its normal pattern-making protocols even during the urgent correction of the No CENTS design flaw, producing multiple composition variants rather than rushing directly to production with the modified dies. This methodical approach, even under pressure from public fraud reports, reflects the institutional discipline that characterized the Philadelphia Mint's operations under Superintendent Snowden.

Rarity Notes

R-7 (Very Rare). Approximately 7-12 examples estimated. Off-metal "With CENTS" patterns are significantly rarer than the nickel version.

Cross References

Judd J-1718, Pollock P-1923