1896 5C, CAM PR(PCGS#83894)

1896 5C, CAM PR (PCGS#83894)

November 2025 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Lot Description: This Gem offers a rare coalescence of superior preservation and exceptional production quality. The fields are bottomless and heavily mirrored, contrasting the frosted devices most dramatically on the obverse. Virtually untoned and brilliant, the faintest vanilla patina is dusted across the reverse. Flashy and highly attractive in hand, with surfaces that remain virtually blemish free even under close inspection with a loupe.The lowest mintage Proof Liberty Head nickel produced up to that point in time, the 1896 considerably scarce by the standards of this type. Just 1,862 coins were struck, compared to the 2,062 pieces produced the year before. This issue presents a challenge to collectors on many fronts, as most survivors are found in grades of Proof-64 and lower, limited by hairlines and other signs of mishandling. They are also seldom found with any degree of Cameo contrast, making this piece a particularly desirable find.