Shield Nickel
(1866 – 1883)
The Shield Nickel is a fantastic coin for any collector. With its unique design and historical significance, it’s one of the earlier five-cent coins minted by the U.S. Mint. While the coin is affordable and can typically be found for under $100, its true value lies in the history it represents as one of the first coins struck in the post-Civil War era.
Understanding Shield Nickel Values is crucial for any collector looking to assess their collection accurately.
Minted from 1866 to 1883, the Shield Nickel holds historical weight due to its creation just after the Civil War. During the war, the U.S. economy had shifted away from coins to alternative forms of currency, like tokens, stamps, and even printed tickets. After the war ended, Congress authorized a new five-cent coin to replace smaller three-cent pieces, leading to the introduction of the Shield Nickel in 1866.
This coin wasn’t just significant because of its timing, but also because it marked the first time a five-cent piece was minted in copper-nickel composition, a metal alloy that would go on to be used in modern nickels today. Interestingly, the name “nickel” comes directly from this coin’s metal content.
Shield Nickel Design
The design of the Shield Nickel is a great representation of American patriotism. The obverse features a shield symbolizing strength, with a simpler reverse that showcases the value “5 CENTS” along with rays emanating from the bottom.
The shield’s design was loosely based on the Great Seal of the United States, adding to the coin’s historical significance. It’s a unique and interesting coin, especially considering that it was one of the first to be struck from nickel — a metal that was previously unused in coinage.
Popularity Among Collectors
The Shield Nickel is popular with collectors for several reasons, but most notably because of its historical importance. It was one of the first five-cent coins minted after the Civil War, and also the first to use nickel in its production. Interestingly, the coin was originally not well-liked, with some finding the design unappealing. However, over the years, collectors have come to appreciate it for its patriotic design, and it’s now considered a quintessential coin in American numismatics. For those just starting their collection, Shield Nickels are a fantastic choice. While the more common years can be found in circulated condition for $20 to $30, there are higher-value coins from certain years that are much rarer.
Collectors often refer to various resources to determine Shield Nickel Values, ensuring they are making informed purchases.
Valuation Chart
Year | Mint Mark / Variety | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
1866 | With Rays | $60 – $300 |
1866 | Without Rays | $50 – $250 |
1867 | With Rays | $50 – $225 |
1867 | Without Rays | $35 – $180 |
1868 | None | $30 – $150 |
1869 | None | $25 – $125 |
1870 | None | $30 – $150 |
1871 | None | $35 – $175 |
1872 | None | $40 – $200 |
1873 | Open 3 | $35 – $160 |
1873 | Closed 3 | $45 – $180 |
1874 | None | $30 – $140 |
1875 | None | $25 – $120 |
1876 | None | $40 – $170 |
1877 | None (Key Date) | $60 – $250 |
1878 | None | $30 – $140 |
1879 | None | $25 – $110 |
1880 | None | $30 – $120 |
1881 | None | $25 – $100 |
1882 | None | $30 – $130 |
1883 | None | $35 – $150 |
Notable Key Dates, Errors, and Varieties
1866 – The first year of issue and one of the most sought-after. Coins in high grades are especially valuable.
Double Die Obverse (1866–1869) – Some of the Shield Nickels from these years exhibit double dies on the obverse, particularly around the letters of “LIBERTY”. These are rare and add a premium to the value.
1866 with Rays – The original Shield Nickel design included rays on the reverse. In 1867, the rays were removed from the design, making 1866 a notable variety. These early versions are prized by collectors.
1867 without Rays – Starting in 1867, the rays were removed from the reverse design. These are rarer and more valuable compared to the 1866 with rays variety.
Historical Context by Year
1866 – The first year of the Shield Nickel, marking the beginning of post-Civil War minting. The coin was meant to help stabilize the economy, but it also symbolized the return to normalcy after the war.
1867 – Production continues as the Shield Nickel becomes a part of regular circulation. The rays are removed from the reverse design later in the year.
1868 – Shield Nickels continue to be minted, though they’re not yet widely circulated. There’s still little demand for smaller denomination coins.
1869 – With the rays now removed, the Shield Nickel has a more streamlined design, but it’s still not a common coin in everyday circulation.
1870 – Shield Nickels are slowly gaining ground, but they’re still not the most widely used coin. It’s the early days of post-war economic recovery.
1871 – Production continues steadily, but the Shield Nickel is more of a curiosity in circulation. It’s not until later years that collectors begin taking a serious interest in the coin.
1872– 1883 – By the time these years arrive, the Shield Nickel has long since fallen out of regular use. The coin is primarily collected and studied by numismatists rather than used for everyday transactions.
Final Thoughts
Though often overshadowed by larger denominations, coins like the Half Cent, Two Cent, and Three Cent Nickel offer an incredible glimpse into the formative years of American coinage. Each served a specific purpose during times of economic need, political change, or national hardship—and while their runs were relatively short, their impact is lasting. These lesser-known denominations carry stories of innovation, adaptation, and the country’s growing pains. For collectors, they represent not just numismatic treasures, but tangible pieces of early American history—proof that even the most unconventional coins can leave a lasting mark.
