Lot 2388
1866 Rays. PCGS graded MS-65. A fully lustrous gem example, untoned. As often happens on first-year issues, the Mint experienced some striking difficulties with the Shield Nickel. The rays element on the reverse caused excessive die wear and breakage. Though making the coin distinctive and highly attractive for this modest design, the Mint chose to remove the rays from later issue, thus improving die-life and lessening the possibility of die breaks forming. Always in strong demand as a two-year Type as well as for its First Year status. A classy looking specimen in this Gem condition.
Overworked, often clashed dies eliminate most Mint State survivors of this and other high production Shield Nickel issues from consideration above the Choice level. One look at this truly exceptional coin and it becomes immediately clear that it may have been produced from a fresh pair of dies. Intense luster shimmers over both sides and the strike is boldly executed (PCGS # 3790) .
Estimated Value $1,400 - 1,500.
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| Realized $1,610 |
