Shield Nickel 1866-1883

Following the U.S. Civil War an immediate shortage of silver, primarily from hoarding of other small denomination coins, caused the need for a five cent coin to be produced. Designed by James B. Longacre the Shield Nickel was composed of 75% nickel and 25% copper, is 20.5mm in diameter and weighs 5 grams. Initially criticized for its Star and Bars motif on the reverse the Shield Nickel was redesigned slightly those minted from 1868 through 1883 dispensed with the Bars. Die cracks are common because of the coins compound and don't generally command a higher price as with other varietal coins.

5¢ SHIELD 1883 PCGS PR66 $1,200.00 Time Remaining: 12h 9m Buy It Now for only: $1,200.00

1867 No Rays Shield Nickel SPECTACULAR GEM BU INV#80-18 $693.00 Time Remaining: 1d 18h 45m Buy It Now for only: $693.00

1882 P 5C Shield Nickel (NGC PF 66) Proof $749.95 Time Remaining: 2d Buy It Now for only: $749.95

Listing of available Shield Nickels are below by year from 1866-1883. The Shield Nickel is sought after by collectors and investors alike. I don't know of any collector who wouldn't want to own at least one.