Pattern and Experimental Coins
1881 Pattern Liberty Nickel. Judd-1671, Pollock-1872. Rarity-6+. Nickel. Plain Edge. Proof-63 (PCGS).
The obverse design is similar to that of the regular issue Liberty nickel introduced in 1883, except the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is around the border in place of 13 stars and the date, of course, is 1881. On the reverse, a Roman numeral V for the denomination is encircled by a wreath of corn, wheat, and cotton. Lovely silver gray surfaces are satiny in texture and feature a dusting of golden-tan patina. An area of thick green patina at the 9 o'clock border is noted for accuracy. This precursor to the famous Liberty Head nickel series of 1883-1912 is often collected by Liberty nickel specialists as well as pattern devotees. Among the finer examples known, only 4 coins have been certified higher by PCGS.
PCGS# 62067. NGC ID: 2AJW.
PCGS Population: 3; 4 finer.
Estimate: $2000