1891 5c PR CAM

Key to Collecting: Echoing the situation for the 1890 nickels, those dated 1891 are much scarcer in high grades than their mintage might suggest. Add to that the light striking and dull luster of many of the pieces, and a challenge is presented.

Proofs are somewhat scarce, as the mintage was low and the coin market continued in a slump.

Characteristics and Appearance: The details vary, but many have lightness on the hair of Liberty and, on the reverse, the ear of corn to the left of the ribbon bow. Others have weakness on several stars as well. There were 69 obverse dies made.

In today’s world of the Internet, certified coins, and fast-paced transactions, scarce issues are much more easily found than they were years ago. In the 1960’s, dealer Abe Kosofftold me that he had spent several years looking for an Uncirculated 1891 Liberty Head nickel for a customer. His client insisted on an Uncirculated piece; a Proof wouldn’t do. Finally, he located an example. Equipped with this knowledge, I set about looking for 1891 Uncirculated nickels on my own, and while the issue seemed to be scarce, I was able to buy several over a period of years—but today, with some inquiries sent here and there, I could probably buy several within a week. 3011 (Deep Cameo)——1,1501,7502,200 8,500

Characteristics and Appearance: Proofs are usually well struck with Full Details, but are sometimes slightly light on the corn ear to the left of the ribbon bow.