1878 Shield Nickel. Proof-67+ (PCGS). CAC.A dazzling top of the population specimen of this perennially popular Proof-only issue. Both sides are lightly and attractively toned in golden-apricot iridescence that deepens ever so slightly at the borders. Sharply struck and essentially pristine even when viewed with the aid of a loupe. The Mint produced just 2,350 nickel five-cent pieces in 1878, all of which are Proofs. With such a limited production figure, this is one of the rarest and most eagerly sought dates in the Shield series of 1866 to 1883. An estimate 1,900 examples remain from this original mintage, but the vast majority are in grades of Proof-65 and lower. The present Superb Gem is among the very finest known, ranking at the top of the PCGS Population Report</em> in its category. An obvious choice for an advanced Registry Set.PCGS# 3832. NGC ID: 276V.
