(1964-65) Quarter Pattern - RB-3130, INCO

Coin Details

Description

The final entry in the RB-31xx sub-group of INCO experimental quarters, cataloged as RB-3130 in the Reed-Brenner classification. This test piece marks the conclusion of one particular alloy investigation within the RB-3xxx family, the last major series of compositions tested by the International Nickel Company during the 1964-65 clad coinage development program. The progression from RB-3100 through RB-3130 — six documented compositions spanning a range of thirty catalog numbers — represents a focused exploration of a specific alloy system that showed sufficient promise to warrant detailed parametric study. Whether this alloy family was ultimately adopted, contributed specific insights to the adopted formulation, or served as a backup option, the testing documented in the RB-31xx sub-group was an integral part of the research that enabled the United States to transition from silver to clad coinage. As the terminal entry in this sub-group, RB-3130 defines the upper boundary of the compositional range that INCO considered viable within this alloy family. Beyond this point, the catalog jumps to the RB-32xx sub-group, indicating a shift to yet another set of compositions for the final phase of testing.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare. Population estimated at 1-3 specimens. As the terminal composition in the RB-31xx sub-group, this piece has particular significance for cataloging purposes.

Cross References

RB-3130 (Reed-Brenner), NGC ID: 61912