1866 5C RAYS

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Sold on Jan 4, 2001 for:

$5,520.00 Bid Source: Live: Floor bidder

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First-Year 1866 Rays Shield Nickel, A PR 66 Specimen

1866 5C Rays PR 66 PCGS. More than 200 proofs were delivered in this, the first year of Shield nickel production. All of these coins are from a single die pair, with faint center dots on the obverse and the reverse, as well as minor recutting on the upright of the 5 in the denomination. The reverse die is the same that the Mint used to produce the pattern Shield nickel issues of 1865 with rays (Judd-416 and Judd-417). Breen (1977) notes that many extant examples of the 1866 proof delivery have been harshly cleaned, a fact that further enhances the desirability of this original Gem. The glassy fields and crisp devices sparkle beneath warm champagne-gray patina. Both sides are free of bothersome contact marks, hairlines, and toning spots.
Breen opines that the cross above the shield on the obverse is that of the Order of Calatrava. This military and religious order originated in Spain during the 12th century to combat the Moors in Castile.
From the Richard Allen Collection.

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 276G, PCGS# 3817, GSID# 2889)

Metal: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Weight: 5.00 grams
Weight: 0.13228oz
Mintage: 600

View Certification Details from PCGS