Rare Shield Nickels: The Shield Nickel, first minted in 1866, was the first U.S. five-cent coin made of nickel and copper. It featured a bold shield design on the obverse and a large numerical “5” encircled by stars on the reverse. Although it was replaced by the Liberty Head Nickel in 1883, Shield Nickels remain highly collectible due to their historical significance and rare varieties.
If you’re a collector or investor, knowing the key dates and varieties of Shield Nickels is essential for determining their true value. Below are 8 key dates and varieties that could make your Shield Nickel collection far more valuable.
Table of Contents
1866 Shield Nickel
- Mintage: 14,742,500
- Value (Estimated): $40 – $5,000+
- Why It’s Special: First year of issue, featuring rays between the stars on the reverse
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The 1866 Shield Nickel debuted with rays between the stars, which was later removed in 1867 due to striking difficulties. Collectors love this “With Rays” variety as it represents the first design of the series. High-grade specimens are very valuable.
1867 Shield Nickel
- Mintage: 2,019,000
- Value (Estimated): $200 – $20,000+
- Why It’s Special: Final year of the “With Rays” design before being removed
The 1867 With Rays Shield Nickel had a very limited mintage, making it rarer than the 1866 version. Collectors seek well-preserved examples, as most available coins are heavily circulated. Proof versions are particularly valuable.
1867 Shield Nickel
- Mintage: 28,890,500
- Value (Estimated): $20 – $1,000+
- Why It’s Special: First year of the “No Rays” design
Midway through 1867, the rays were removed from the design to improve minting quality. This created two distinct versions for the year. Although it’s more common than the With Rays variety, high-grade examples still command a premium.
1877 Shield Nickel
- Mintage: 852,500
- Value (Estimated): $500 – $15,000+
- Why It’s Special: Lowest mintage of any business-strike Shield Nickel
The 1877 Shield Nickel had the lowest regular mintage of the series, making it extremely rare in any condition. Finding a well-preserved example is tough, and even lower-grade coins hold significant value.
1878 Shield Nickel
- Mintage: Only Proof Coins Minted (2,350)
- Value (Estimated): $2,000 – $25,000+
- Why It’s Special: No business-strike coins exist; only Proof versions
In 1878, the U.S. Mint only produced Proof Shield Nickels, making them incredibly rare. Because no circulation coins were made, every 1878 Shield Nickel found today is a high-value Proof coin.
1869/8 Overdate Shield Nickel
- Mintage: Unknown
- Value (Estimated): $500 – $10,000+
- Why It’s Special: A rare minting error where an “8” is visible under the “9”
The 1869/8 Overdate Shield Nickel is a classic variety among collectors. The “8” beneath the “9” is a result of using an outdated die. Overdate coins like these are scarce and command high prices at auctions.
1873 Open 3 vs. Closed 3 Variety
- Mintage: 436,050 (Open 3), Unknown (Closed 3)
- Value (Estimated): $200 – $5,000+
- Why It’s Special: Two distinct numeral styles in the date
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The 1873 Shield Nickel was minted with two variations of the number “3” in the date. The Closed 3 version (where the top and bottom parts of the “3” are close together) is rarer than the Open 3 version, making it significantly more valuable.
1880 Shield Nickel
- Mintage: Only Proof Coins Minted (3,955)
- Value (Estimated): $1,500 – $10,000+
- Why It’s Special: No business-strike versions exist
Like the 1878 Shield Nickel, the 1880 Shield Nickel was struck only as a Proof, making it another rare and sought-after collector’s piece. Any example in good condition is a valuable find.
Table – Rare Shield Nickels
| Coin | Mint / Year | Estimated Value | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1866 Shield Nickel (With Rays) | Philadelphia / 1866 | $40 – $5,000+ | First year of issue, features rays between stars |
| 1867 Shield Nickel (With Rays) | Philadelphia / 1867 | $200 – $20,000+ | Last year of the “With Rays” design |
| 1867 Shield Nickel (No Rays) | Philadelphia / 1867 | $20 – $1,000+ | First year of the “No Rays” design |
| 1877 Shield Nickel | Philadelphia / 1877 | $500 – $15,000+ | Lowest mintage of any business-strike Shield Nickel |
| 1878 Shield Nickel | Philadelphia / 1878 | $2,000 – $25,000+ | Only Proof coins minted, no business strikes exist |
| 1869/8 Overdate Shield Nickel | Philadelphia / 1869 | $500 – $10,000+ | Minting error with an “8” visible under the “9” |
| 1873 Open 3 vs. Closed 3 Variety | Philadelphia / 1873 | $200 – $5,000+ | Two distinct numeral styles, Closed 3 is rarer |
| 1880 Shield Nickel | Philadelphia / 1880 | $1,500 – $10,000+ | Only Proof coins minted, highly collectible |
In Final Thoughts The Shield Nickel remains one of the most historically important coins in American numismatics. Whether you’re an investor or a collector, these 8 key dates and varieties should be on your radar. Check your collection—you might be holding a valuable piece of history.
FAQ
What makes Shield Nickels valuable?
Shield Nickels are valuable due to low mintages, rare varieties, and historical significance. Certain dates and minting errors make some coins worth thousands of dollars.
How can I tell if my Shield Nickel is rare?
Check the date, design variations, and potential errors (e.g., overdates or repunched numbers). Rare dates like 1877, 1878, and 1880 are highly sought after.
Are all Shield Nickels made of silver?
No. Unlike many other 19th-century U.S. coins, Shield Nickels contain no silver. They are composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel.
How much is a Shield Nickel worth today?
The value depends on condition and rarity. Common dates in circulated condition can be worth $10-$50, while rare varieties can sell for $1,000 to $25,000+.
Where can I sell a valuable Shield Nickel?
You can sell rare Shield Nickels at coin shops, online marketplaces (eBay, Heritage Auctions), or professional coin dealers who specialize in rare U.S. coins.
