1964 Quarter Pattern - RB-2540, INCO

Coin Details

Description

An International Nickel Company experimental quarter designated RB-2540 in the Reed-Brenner catalog, part of the intensive RB-25xx testing sub-series produced in 1964. These test strikes were produced during a remarkable period of governmental urgency: the Treasury Department was losing its battle to maintain silver in circulation, with coin shortages reported across the country and the Mint operating at maximum capacity while still failing to meet demand. Against this backdrop, INCO's experimental program represented the best hope for a practical solution, and the RB-25xx compositions were being evaluated with extraordinary thoroughness. Each test strike was subjected to chemical analysis confirming its exact composition, then evaluated against a checklist of performance requirements that included factors as diverse as resistance to cleaning solvents (coins needed to withstand commercial cleaning), behavior in coin-wrapping machines, and even the sound produced when the coin was dropped on a hard surface — experienced cashiers and bank tellers relied on the distinctive ring of silver coins to detect counterfeits, and any replacement metal that sounded noticeably different would undermine public confidence.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare experimental issue. Population be 1-3 known examples. Sound and touch characteristics — difficult to evaluate from photographs — add a tactile dimension to these pieces.

Cross References

RB-2540 (Reed-Brenner), NGC ID: 61896