1867 5C Rays PR64 PCGS. CAC....

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Famous Choice Proof 1867 Rays Nickel

1867 5C Rays PR64 PCGS. CAC. The proof Rays 1867 nickel is the most famous rarity of the Shield nickel series, and perhaps of the entire denomination, with the exception of the 1913 Liberty nickel. The Guide Book lists the mintage of the proof 1867 Rays nickel as only 25+ pieces. More than that number have been certified at the leading services, but those figures are undoubtedly inflated by resubmissions, given the economic incentive to secure a finer grade.
Numismatists were surprised when John Dannreuther published research that indicated two different obverse dies were used to strike this rare and limited proof issue. Obverse 1 is associated with originals, and Obverse 2 with restrikes. The present near-Gem is from Obverse 1, and was presumably part of the 25 piece delivery of proof 1867 nickels on February 8, 1867. Per Dannreuther, original strikings have slight repunching on the base of the 7, and the left edge of the 1 is over the right part of a dentil.
This fully struck specimen displays pastel steel-blue and straw-gold toning. There are no contact marks, and the fields exhibit good reflectivity. Study beneath a loupe reveals only insignificant carbon and the occasional minuscule lintmark (as made) near the margins. An important example of this classic numismatic rarity.(Registry values: N10218)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 276H, PCGS# 3818, GSID# 2892)

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

View Certification Details from PCGS