Found 1880 Shield Nickel, Need To Know If It's Legit.

I would rather have the OP coin. My set is all business strikes, I'm not interested in proofs. If I was I would have finished my Three Cent Nickels long ago. And I may be a "true and knowledgeable collector" (thanks for the compliment) but I am also poor and my coins are not "fine" ones. The AVERAGE grade on my early large cent set is G-4.

When it comes to apples and oranges, business strikes and proofs, I like 'em all. My point was aimed at appearance and appreciation. While I love studying and looking at counterstamps, a.k.a. damaged coins, MS-66 proof coins are, IMHO, works of art; especially so, those early ones. With regard to the OP's coin, I do believe that the modest spread between the perceived value of the damaged 1880 nickel and a proof, MS-66 specimen would cause most collectors to opt for the proof version; this, given a choice. Beauty is one reason I'm more drawn to the proof, and marketability is the other.

@Conder101 ... By "fine" I wasn't referring to the condition of coins. Like you, I've long been captivated by the well worn early coppers. I used the word "fine" in the generic sense, as regards desirability. I am surprised that you'd opt for the damaged business strike over an MS-66 proof Shield nickel though! I'm willing to bet that the great majority of collectors would opt for the proof.

Decided on 5 day auction, incase it's a last minute xmas gift.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/152359139976

not a bad ending bid.