1877 Shield Nickel. Proof-65 (NGC).；This is a fully struck, satin to semi-reflective Gem Proof nickel, further adorned with delicate golden-apricot iridescence. The 1877 is a popular Proof-only issue with a mintage that is usually listed as 900 pieces, although Q. David Bowers (<em>A Guide Book of Shield and Liberty Nickels</em>, 2006) provides an estimate of 1,250 to 1,500 coins struck. Regardless, the 1877 has the lowest mintage of any date in this series, and survivors are eagerly sought at all levels of preservation.
