1874 Shield Nickel. Proof-67 Cameo (PCGS).A smartly impressed, overall fully struck Superb Gem with gorgeous silver gray surfaces. Otherwise satiny in finish, both sides reveal modest semi-reflective tendencies in the fields that offer good contrast with the devices. From an estimated mintage of 1,000 to 1,200 coins, and far finer than the typically offered survivor in todays market. According to Douglas L. Kurz, as quoted in Q. David Bowers 2006 Shield and Liberty Head nickel reference, A good percentage of 1874 proofs [sic] have the reverse star at 4 oclock partially obliterated or flattened due to die grease being in the recess of the die. This is just such a coin although, as above, the strike is full with all other design elements razor sharp in detail.
