The differences with a regular 5 Cent nickel piece of the year is in the obverse. Designed by Charles E. Barber, the head of Liberty wears a plain coronet, without the usual inscription. The word LIBERTY, which was and is required by law to be on circulating coinage, is above the head, with the stars arranged 6 left and 7 right. The reverse is that of a regular Proof die, with no cents, of this first and only year of issue for the type.

The United States Mint struck various different patterns for the new 5 cent piece to replace the old Shield Nickel, introduced together with the denomination in 1866. Of these, a number are struck in various different alloys of Nickel to test the striking abilities and wearing patterns, but in the end the alloy remained the same as previously used.

This is a wonderful Cameo piece with very deep mirrors. Only the slightest hairlines in the fields hold this coin out of a higher grade holder. Original silvery Nickel color, virtually untoned, is displayed on both sides. The sharp is especially sharp, lacking the loss of detail usually seen on these coins. This is a wonderful coin for the specialist of 5 cent pieces, or anyone who would like to own an interesting and affordable pattern.