1867 5C Shield Nickel, No Rays NGC PR65CAM (CAC)

"625 proofs were delivered with the silver sets of this year," reports NGC Coin Explorer, "and an unknown number were sold as part of minor proof sets which also included the cent, two-cent piece and the nickel three-cent piece. In his Guide Book to Shield and Liberty Head Nickels, Q. David Bowers provides an estimated total mintage of 750-1,100 pieces. These proofs were well made, though not mishandled over the years revealing brilliant fields. The strike is usually quite complete, with the possible exception of the star centers. Gems are scarce, cameo proofs even more so."

Well, the offering from AUCM is both a gem and a cameo proof! NGC has graded 25 as Proof 65 Cameo with 20 finer. In CAC, there are 6 in Proof 65 Cameo with just 2 finer.

James B. Longacre, who designed the Shield Nickel in his role as U.S. Mint Chief Engraver.