1887 7/6 Strong Overdate Proof

The 1887 7/6 Strong Overdate proof three-cent nickel shows the underlying 6 with unusual clarity, with a sharp 6 visible beneath the 7 rather than the faint remnant found on the Weak Overdate. The distinction comes from how much the Mint managed to grind away from the original 1886 die before striking. On the Strong Overdate dies, the polishing effort was minimal or unsuccessful; on the Weak Overdate dies, more of the underlying 6 was ground off.

Total surviving populations of the Strong and Weak overdates are nearly identical, with the Strong having a slight edge. The Strong Overdate commands a premium over the Weak version, and PCGS populations suggest the Weak is almost four times as rare as the Strong in Cameo proof format. Deep Cameo examples of either variety may not exist at all. A PR67+ is the finest known in either variety, and neither is documented above that grade.