 1873 Closed 3. Gem Brilliant Proof. A sterling coin that boasts well frosted devices on the obverse, more mirrored on the reverse. There is a minor lint mark above the shield which crosses some of the devices and wreath. Free of fly specks or contact marks, and a lovely example of this date. All Proof Nickels of this year are of the ''Closed 3'' variety, and were probably struck early in the year for sets and collectors. After complaints were heard that the '3' could be confused for an '8', the date punch was changed on most of the denominations, which must have been quite a headache for the mint engravers.
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