US Patterns- WHAT U.S. COINAGE COULD HAVE BEEN
J-473 5C - Washington Head reverse with Stars and Rays

Owner Comments:

1866 5C
Judd-473, Pollock-564
Rarity: High R.6, PR66 Cameo

Struck in nickel with a plain edge.

Obverse: The obverse depicts a bust of Washington facing right and has the legend “IN GOD WE TRUST” above and the date below.

Reverse: On this piece the obverse is muled with a regular issue shield nickel with rays reverse.

Comment: Just the slightest hint of golden-lilac toning is seen over each side. As one would expect from a Cameo, the fields are deeply reflective and there is a significant presence of mint frost over the device.
George Washington appeared on numerous privately minted Early American tokens, but did not appear on U.S. Mint coins prior to the 1863 2 C pattern and these1866 five cent patterns.

Provenance/ Appearance:
Private purchase; Heritage 2014 ANA Atlanta /Lot 4368