Shield Nickel Value
1866-1883 · 5¢ · 75% copper 25% nickel
Value by Grade
| Grade | Est. Value |
|---|---|
| Poor (P-1) | $15.00 |
| Good (G-4) | $30.00 |
| Fine (F-12) | $75.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $300.00 |
| Gem (MS-65) | $900.00 |
| Perfect (MS-70) | $4,500 |
Key Dates & Rare Varieties
| Date/Variety | Why It's Special | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1877 | Proof-only issue with just 900 struck | $2,000–$4,500 |
| 1878 | Proof-only issue with 2,350 produced | $1,200–$3,000 |
| 1867 | With Rays variety, scarcer than without | $30–$600 |
| 1871 | Low mintage of 561,000, difficult in all grades | $60–$800 |
| 1880 | Extremely low mintage of just 16,000 business strikes | $200–$1,000 |
Coin Specifications
- Designer
- James B. Longacre
- Years
- 1866-1883
- Denomination
- 5¢
- Composition
- 75% copper 25% nickel
- Diameter
- 20.5 mm
- Weight
- 5 g
Quick Value
Where to Buy/Sell
Shield Nickel: History & Background
The Shield Nickel was the first five-cent coin struck in the copper-nickel alloy still used today, introduced in 1866 to replace the tiny silver half dime. Designed by James B. Longacre, the obverse features a prominent Union shield symbolizing national unity after the Civil War. Early issues from 1866 to 1867 display rays between the stars on the reverse, but these were removed because they caused excessive die breakage. The 1877 and 1878 issues are proof-only dates, and the series was replaced in 1883 by Charles Barber's Liberty Head design.
How to Grade a Shield Nickel
Accurate grading is the single most important factor in determining a coin's value. A difference of just a few grade points can mean 10× or more in value. Examine the highest points of the design first — these are where wear appears earliest. For the finest grades, luster, strike quality, and surface preservation all matter. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC adds certainty and typically increases resale value. Read our complete grading guide →