1909 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-1783

Coin Details

Description

Judd-1783 is the third nickel pattern from the 1909 five-cent design exploration series. Each successive Judd number in the J-1781 through J-1787 sequence represents a distinct die combination tested as the Mint evaluated replacements for the Liberty Head Nickel. The 1909 patterns were produced at a time when the broader American arts community had been energized by Roosevelt's coinage beautification campaign, and several outside sculptors expressed interest in designing the new nickel. The Commission of Fine Arts, established in 1910 partly in response to the coinage reform movement, would eventually play a crucial role in selecting Fraser's design. J-1783 features one of the in-house designs prepared by Barber or his assistants, exploring themes and compositions that reflected the contemporary aesthetic dialogue between the Mint's traditional design approach and the more progressive artistic vision championed by the Commission. The copper-nickel alloy used for five-cent pieces presented specific die-cutting challenges due to its hardness, and each pattern also served as a practical test of how the proposed design would strike in the intended metal.

Rarity Notes

R-6 to R-7 (Very Rare to Extremely Rare). Approximately 10-15 specimens estimated for this variety.

Cross References

Judd J-1783, Pollock P-1973