The KEY date to the Shield nickel series and this GEM is one of the FINEST extant examples from an original mintage of only 16,000. The presently offered GEM has a pleasing semi-Prooflike luster that radiates around exceptionally well struck devices. You can tell from across the room that this highly lustrous coin has a great look. It is accentuated by a light dusting of gentle gold tone. Even under a powerful loupe, you will be unable to find a single flaw worthy of mention. Overall, the eye appeal is stupendous! Aside from being a RARE date to find in any Mint State grade, it is confusing for many numismatists to determine circulation strikes from Proofs, as they were both struck from the same set of dies. Circulation strikes are identifiable by the die chip on the reverse under the second T in STATES and a little projection that comes off the dentils between NT in CENTS. PCGS 7, NGC 4, CAC 2. There are two MS66 finer at PCGS, and that is it! (Both MS66s have been offered in auction a few times over the last several years, but due to high reserves, neither has sold). This is the only CAC approved MS65 to sell in auction, selling most recently in September 2018 for $58,500. The MS65 PCGS Price Guide value is $70,000, and we think this coin could again break that level! Keep in mind this coin does have a price history at $91,063 back in our September 2015 Regency Auction. Cert. Number 25566117 PCGS # 3810