1909 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-1781

Coin Details

Description

Judd-1781 is the first in an extensive series of seven nickel patterns from 1909 (J-1781 through J-1787) that document the early stages of the design competition that would eventually produce James Earle Fraser's Buffalo Nickel in 1913. With the Liberty Head Nickel nearing the end of its mandatory 25-year minimum production run, the Mint began exploring alternative designs for the five-cent denomination. J-1781 represents one of the earliest design proposals evaluated during this process, featuring a new obverse or reverse concept prepared under the direction of Chief Engraver Charles Barber. The seven nickel patterns of 1909 represent a remarkable burst of design activity for a single denomination in a single year, reflecting the Mint's awareness that the nickel redesign offered an opportunity to continue the artistic renaissance that Roosevelt had initiated with the gold coinage. Each pattern in the J-1781 through J-1787 sequence presents a distinct design combination, providing a comprehensive record of the creative alternatives considered before Fraser's design was ultimately selected.

Rarity Notes

R-6 to R-7 (Very Rare to Extremely Rare). Nickel patterns from the 1909 design exploration survive in very limited numbers, typically fewer than 15 specimens per variety.

Cross References

Judd J-1781, Pollock P-1971