1865 3CN PR(PCGS#3761)

1865 3CN PR (PCGS#3761)

Spring 2025 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

详细说明: Whereas early date circulation strikes in the nickel three-cent series are generally more common than their late-date counterparts, the opposite is true for Proofs. The first year 1865, in fact, is the rarest Proof of this denomination; the mintage is unknown because it was not recorded by Mint personnel. The <em>Guide Book</em> has long provided an estimate of 500+ coins struck, although John W. Dannreuther has taken a more liberal stance with an approximate mintage of 600 put forth in the 2023 volume in his <em>United States Proof Coins</em> series. The Mint did not officially begin selling minor coin Proof sets until 1867, but it is likely that a few were distributed in 1865, each containing the cent, two-cent piece, and nickel three-cent piece. Dannreuther believes that more specimens of the nickel three-cent piece were coined for individual sale, both in 1865 and for a few years thereafter, to satisfy collector demand for this first-year issue. Only 400 or so coins are believed extant in all grades, including stellar top-pop Superb Gem from PCGS. Glorious multi-colored toning shines forth most powerfully and vividly when the surfaces dip into a light. Fully struck with smooth, glassy fields supporting more satiny motifs. This is a glorious coin first for inclusion in the finest first-year Proof type set or nickel three-cent collection. JD Die State a/a, with clear repunching to the date digits and perfect coin alignment with no rotation.