1873 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-1264

Coin Details

Description

The 1873 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-1264 is a proof nickel struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Trade Dollar Era Patterns (1871-1873) series. The obverse features Liberty seated facing left, holding an olive branch extended to the viewer, with a sheaf of wheat behind and the reverse displays an eagle perched on a bale of goods, with an olive branch and three arrows. First year of the Trade Dollar, authorized under the Coinage Act of 1873 to compete with the Mexican peso in Asian silver markets. At 420 grains, it was deliberately heavier than the standard silver dollar. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Struck in copper. Cataloged as PCGS #61549.

Rarity Notes

R-7. Extremely rare, estimated 4-12 examples known.

Cross References

Judd-1264, Pollock-1403