Jefferson Nickels
1945-D 5C MS68 ★ NGC. Storage in a coin album combined with the billon Wartime alloy likely caused the incredible colors on this impeccably preserved example. Outer bands of navy and violet fade to lime-green, mint, gold, and finally rose in the center, while the reverse has patches of lime and mauve patina. The surfaces are solidly struck with vibrant luster beneath the rich patina. Census: 7 in 68 (4 in 68★), 0 finer (11/16).
Ex: Long Beach Signature (Heritage, 6/2007), lot 614.