1964 Quarter Pattern - RB-1105, INCO

Coin Details

Description

This experimental quarter features the RB-1105 alloy from INCO's 1100-series of copper-nickel compositions. Within the broader context of the 1964 silver crisis, this sub-series explored a distinct metallurgical approach to creating a coinage alloy that could satisfy the Treasury's requirements. The ideal replacement needed to match silver's striking characteristics while also being economical to produce, resistant to counterfeiting, and compatible with the millions of coin-operated machines in service across the country. The electromagnetic signature of each test alloy was a critical evaluation criterion, as vending machines relied on the electrical properties of coins for authentication — a challenge that the eventual copper-nickel clad solution elegantly addressed.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare. Like all INCO experimental quarters, the RB-1105 composition exists in very limited numbers, primarily held in advanced pattern collections.

Cross References

Reed-Brenner RB-1105; NGC census