1964 Dime Pattern - RB-2005, INCO

Coin Details

Description

An INCO experimental clad dime pattern designated RB-2005, representing a distinct alloy composition variant within the RB-2000 dime series. Each five-unit increment in the Robinson-Breen numbering system typically corresponds to a different metallic formulation, meaning RB-2005 employs a different proportion of nickel, copper, or other alloying elements in its cladding and core layers compared to RB-2000. The International Nickel Company's metallurgists had decades of experience formulating coinage alloys for governments worldwide, and they brought this expertise to bear on the American silver crisis with characteristic thoroughness. The test striking process involved producing planchets at INCO's research facilities, then having the Medallic Art Company of New York strike them using borrowed Roosevelt dime dies under conditions that replicated the Philadelphia Mint's production environment. This allowed meaningful comparison not only of the alloys' striking properties but also of their behavior in automated coin-handling equipment. Each composition variant was evaluated across multiple criteria: visual similarity to existing silver coinage, resistance to corrosion and atmospheric tarnishing, electromagnetic properties for vending machine acceptance, striking quality and die wear rates, and long-term durability under circulation conditions. RB-2005 documents one step in this exhaustive evaluation process.

Rarity Notes

R-7 to R-8. Produced in very limited numbers strictly for Treasury evaluation. Individual specimens are seldom encountered outside major pattern collections.

Cross References

RB-2005 (Robinson-Breen catalog). INCO/Medallic Art Company experimental clad coinage program, 1964.