1879/8 Shield Nickel. Proof-68 (PCGS).A splendid example of this popular variety in the Proof Shield nickel series. Essentially brilliant on the obverse, the reverse reveals a blush of pale champagne-pink iridescence at isolated viewing angles. Both sides are fully struck with a delightful reflective finish from the dies. Although some numismatic scholars, including Q. David Bowers and Ron Guth, believe that this variety is actually a Repunched Date, numismatic tradition describes this obverse die of the Proof 1879 Shield nickel as an overdate. Regardless of its exact attribution, this is one of the most eagerly sought varieties in its series, at least in part due to its separate listing in the Guide Book. Examples are nearly as plentiful as their normal date counterparts in todays market, but they are rare in the finest grades, as here.
