1867 Shield Nickel. No Rays. Proof-66 Ultra Cameo (NGC).A delightful specimen that ranks among the finest certified for this popular transitional issue. Bright and untoned, the surfaces allow ready appreciation of stark cameo contrast between the fields and devices. Fully struck and virtually pristine, it is easy to admire this coins exceptional technical quality and outstanding visual appeal. For the first year type collector that demands the utmost in Proof coinage, this premium Gem is sure to please. The simplified No Rays variant of the Shield nickel was put into production in February of 1867, the modification to the design intended to alleviate the striking problems that the Mint experienced with the new nickel five-cent piece upon its introduction the previous year. Indeed, the less cluttered design allowed mint employees to extend die life for circulation strikes to more than 10,000 coins, most examples also exhibiting overall bolder detail than their With Rays counterparts. Anticipating a change to the design to improve quality and extend working die life, Chief Coiner Snowden refrained from striking Proofs of the With Rays type for inclusion in the years silver and minor coin Proof sets. (Even so, a limited number of Proof 1867 Rays nickels were struck clandestinely; more information can be found above in our lot description for the PCGS Proof-66 Cameo specimen of that rare issue that we are also offering in this sale.) When regular issue Proof nickel five-cent piece production commenced in 1867, mint personnel did not record the number of coins struck, as was customary for Proof minor coinage during that era. Based on the number of coins extant, Q. David Bowers (2006) provides an approximate mintage of 850 to 1,100 pieces. Although certainly not in the same rarity class as its Proof 1867 With Rays counterpart, the Proof 1867 No Rays is a formidable condition rarity in grades above Proof-65, as here. The present example is also a significant strike rarity due to the strong cameo contrast evident on both sides. A beautiful coin in all regards that would serve as a highlight in the finest collection.
