1866 Nickel Three-Cent Piece. Proof-67 Ultra Cameo (NGC).Scarce as an issue and undeniably rare at the assigned grade level, this is an outstanding nickel three-cent piece that will delight both type and date collectors. Brilliant apart from a halo of iridescent gold around the reverse periphery, the surfaces allow ready appreciation of a boldly cameoed finish. Fully struck, expertly preserved, and a delight to behold. Although most numismatic references provide a mintage of 725+ coins for the Proof 1866 nickel three-cent piece, this figure is only a (very rough) estimate since Mint personnel did not begin recording yearly Proof mintages for minor coins until 1877. Based on the number of coins extant, and taking into account a reasonable rate of attrition (primarily for undistributed examples), we believe that the actual mintage is in the range of 800 to 1,200 coins. A rare find with its combination of a deeply cameoed finish and expertly preserved surfaces, this Condition Census Superb Gem is sure to sell for a strong premium.
