1896 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-1770a

Coin Details

Auction Record

$23,000 PR64 01-07-2008 Stack's

Description

Judd-1770a is a proof pattern five-cent piece representing a compositional variant of J-1770, struck as part of the 1896 alloy testing program that evaluated fifteen different metallic formulations for minor coinage. The obverse and reverse designs match all other 1896 shield-type five-cent patterns: Barber's shield with LIBERTY scroll and crossed poles on the obverse, and 5 CENTS within an olive sprig on the reverse. The "a" suffix indicates a different alloy from the primary J-1770, a variation of German silver — a copper-zinc-nickel alloy that produces a silvery-white appearance without using any actual silver. German silver alloys were commonly used in European coinage and industrial applications, and the Mint tested several proportional variations to identify the optimal balance of striking quality, wear resistance, and aesthetic appeal. The five-cent denomination received particular attention during the 1896 tests because its existing copper-nickel composition was already under scrutiny for die wear issues and difficulties in achieving full design detail on the Liberty Head type. Each alloy variation was struck in a limited run, typically ten pieces, providing enough specimens for the Mint's internal evaluation and the Secretary of the Treasury's report to Congress while keeping mintage quantities deliberately small.

Rarity Notes

R-7. Fewer than 10 examples exist. Scarce compositional variant.

Cross References

Judd J-1770a, Pollock P-1988