1964 Dime Pattern - RB-2010, INCO

Coin Details

Description

Experimental clad dime pattern RB-2010 from the International Nickel Company's silver replacement evaluation program. This test strike uses Roosevelt dime dies on yet another variant alloy planchet, continuing the systematic exploration of clad metal compositions that characterized INCO's contribution to the Treasury's coinage crisis response. The numerical progression from RB-2000 through RB-2035 traces a deliberate experimental arc, with each composition offering subtly different trade-offs between the competing requirements of a successful coinage alloy. A composition that excelled at replicating silver's bright white appearance might perform poorly in vending machines whose electromagnetic sensors were calibrated for 90% silver; conversely, an alloy with ideal electromagnetic properties might tarnish unacceptably or prove too hard for efficient die striking. INCO's engineers understood that the winning composition would need to satisfy all of these constraints simultaneously. The dime-denomination test pieces were particularly important because the thin planchet and small diameter of the dime presented the most demanding test of an alloy's striking characteristics — any deficiency in metal flow or surface quality would be immediately apparent on the coin's fine relief details, especially the delicate torch and oak-olive wreath elements of the Roosevelt dime reverse.

Rarity Notes

R-7 to R-8. Like all INCO experimental clad patterns, this was produced in minimal quantities for technical evaluation rather than numismatic distribution.

Cross References

RB-2010 (Robinson-Breen catalog). INCO/Medallic Art Company experimental clad coinage program, 1964.