Proof twenty-cent pieces were made at Philadelphia for all four years of the series, 1875 through 1878. Because no business strikes were produced in 1877 or 1878, those two dates exist essentially only as Proofs and have always been landmarks of the denomination.
Key facts
- Designed by: William Barber (obverse after Christian Gobrecht)
- Issue dates: 1875–1878
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Diameter: 22 mm
- Weight: 5.00 grams (77.16 grains)
- Edge: Plain
- Mintage: 5,000 Proofs (estimated, all dates)
Reported Proof mintages are small — on the order of a few hundred to around 1,250 per year — and the Proof-only 1877 (about 350) and 1878 (about 600) are the keys. Many survivors have been cleaned, so original, evenly toned Proofs are preferred.
We actively buy Proof twenty-cent pieces in every grade. Send photos for a free, no-obligation offer.