2011 Nickel Pattern - J-2220, Waffle-Cancelled Trial

Coin Details

Description

A third waffle-cancelled nickel pattern from 2011, cataloged as J-2220 and representing yet another experimental alloy in the Mint's comprehensive evaluation of alternative five-cent compositions. The gap between J-2212 and J-2220 in the Judd sequence indicates that multiple intervening compositions were also tested, with J-2220 potentially representing a later or more promising formulation in the testing program. The nickel denomination was a particular focus of alternative metals research because its production cost — driven primarily by the price of the nickel metal itself — had risen to approximately 11 cents per coin by 2011, making it the most cost-inefficient denomination in regular production. The 75% copper / 25% nickel alloy used since 1866 had become untenable from a fiscal perspective, but any replacement needed to maintain the specific electrical resistivity that vending machines used to authenticate five-cent pieces. This waffle-cancelled specimen preserves evidence of one candidate alloy's appearance and striking characteristics, even though the waffle cancellation has obliterated the original surface detail.

Rarity Notes

R-8 (Extremely Rare). As with other waffle-cancelled trials, specimens exist primarily in Mint custody with occasional examples reaching the collector market.

Cross References

Judd J-2220. Part of the 2011 alternative metals testing program.