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.

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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.