Top 15 Most Valuable Shield Nickels – Shield Nickels, the five-cent pieces minted by the United States from 1866 to 1883, are a fascinating realm for coin enthusiasts and collectors. With their distinctive design and historical significance, Shield Nickels have intrigued numismatists for generations. In this article, we’ll delve into the top 15 most valuable Shield Nickels, exploring their worth, historical context, and what makes them stand out.
| Coin | Mint | Value Range | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1866 Rays Shield Nickel | Philadelphia | $1,000 – $3,000 | First year issue with rays; highly collectible |
| 1867 Rays Shield Nickel | Philadelphia | $1,500 – $4,000 | Rarer than 1866; rays removed mid-year |
| 1867 No Rays Shield Nickel | Philadelphia | $300 – $1,200 | First “No Rays” variety |
| 1868 Shield Nickel | Philadelphia | $200 – $800 | Common but still valuable in high grades |
| 1869 Shield Nickel | Philadelphia | $300 – $1,000 | Historical appeal boosts its value |
| 1870 Shield Nickel | Philadelphia | $250 – $900 | Steady value for high-grade examples |
| 1871 Shield Nickel | Philadelphia | $300 – $1,200 | Sought-after due to its historical significance |
| 1872 Shield Nickel | Philadelphia | $400 – $1,500 | Higher value in top condition |
| 1873 Closed 3 Shield Nickel | Philadelphia | $1,000 – $3,500 | Unique closed “3” date variety |
| 1873 Open 3 Shield Nickel | Philadelphia | $500 – $2,000 | More common than Closed 3 but still valuable |
| 1874 Shield Nickel | Philadelphia | $300 – $1,200 | Steady demand among collectors |
| 1875 Shield Nickel | Philadelphia | $400 – $1,500 | High-grade examples highly valued |
| 1876 Shield Nickel | Philadelphia | $300 – $1,200 | Collectible due to its age and design |
| 1877 Shield Nickel | Philadelphia | $500 – $2,000 | Rarity increases its market value |
| 1883 Shield Nickel | Philadelphia | $400 – $1,500 | Last year of issue; end of an iconic series |
Table of Contents
- 1 1866 Rays Shield Nickel
- 2 1867 Rays Shield Nickel
- 3 1867 No Rays Shield Nickel
- 4 1868 Shield Nickel
- 5 1869 Shield Nickel
- 6 1870 Shield Nickel
- 7 1871 Shield Nickel
- 8 1872 Shield Nickel
- 9 1873 Closed 3 Shield Nickel
- 10 1873 Open 3 Shield Nickel
- 11 1874 Shield Nickel
- 12 1875 Shield Nickel
- 13 1876 Shield Nickel
- 14 1877 Shield Nickel
- 15 1883 Shield Nickel
- 16 Conclusion
1866 Rays Shield Nickel
The 1866 Shield Nickel with rays is a prized possession for collectors. The presence of rays around the shield on the reverse side makes this coin highly sought after. In excellent condition, these nickels can fetch prices ranging from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on their grade.
Top 10 Most Valuable Dimes Ever Minted in the U.S.
1867 Rays Shield Nickel
The 1867 Shield Nickel with rays is another valuable coin. While similar to its 1866 counterpart, the 1867 version tends to be slightly rarer, pushing its value higher. Prices for well-preserved specimens can range from $1,500 to $4,000.
1867 No Rays Shield Nickel
In 1867, the U.S. Mint removed the rays from the Shield Nickel, resulting in two distinct varieties for that year. The no rays version is also valuable, though slightly less so than its rays counterpart. Expect prices in the range of $300 to $1,200 for high-grade coins.
1868 Shield Nickel
The 1868 Shield Nickel, while not as rare as some of the earlier varieties, can still command significant prices. Coins in exceptional condition can be valued between $200 and $800.
1869 Shield Nickel
The 1869 Shield Nickel is a must-have for serious collectors. High-grade examples can sell for $300 to $1,000. The historical significance of this year adds to the coin’s allure.
1870 Shield Nickel
The 1870 Shield Nickel, like its predecessors, is a valuable addition to any collection. Prices for well-preserved coins can range from $250 to $900, depending on their condition.
1871 Shield Nickel
The 1871 Shield Nickel is another sought-after coin. With its historical importance and relative scarcity, collectors can expect to pay between $300 and $1,200 for a high-grade example.
1872 Shield Nickel
The 1872 Shield Nickel continues the trend of valuable coins from this series. Well-preserved specimens can fetch prices ranging from $400 to $1,500, depending on their grade.
1873 Closed 3 Shield Nickel
The 1873 Shield Nickel with a closed 3 in the date is a notable variety. These coins can be quite valuable, with prices for high-grade examples ranging from $1,000 to $3,500.
1873 Open 3 Shield Nickel
The 1873 Shield Nickel with an open 3 in the date is another variation that collectors seek. While not as rare as the closed 3 version, it still commands significant prices, ranging from $500 to $2,000 for well-preserved coins.
1874 Shield Nickel
The 1874 Shield Nickel continues to be a valuable coin. Prices for high-grade examples can range from $300 to $1,200, depending on their condition.
1875 Shield Nickel
The 1875 Shield Nickel is a desirable coin for collectors. Well-preserved specimens can fetch prices ranging from $400 to $1,500, depending on their grade.
1876 Shield Nickel
The 1876 Shield Nickel is another valuable coin in this series. High-grade examples can sell for $300 to $1,200, depending on their condition.
1943-D Bronze Lincoln Cent: A Hidden Treasure Worth $840,000
1877 Shield Nickel
The 1877 Shield Nickel is a prized possession for collectors. With its historical significance and relative rarity, prices for well-preserved coins can range from $500 to $2,000.
1883 Shield Nickel
The 1883 Shield Nickel marks the end of this series. Coins in excellent condition can be valued between $400 and $1,500, depending on their grade.
Conclusion
Shield Nickels hold a unique place in American numismatic history. Their distinctive design and the historical context in which they were minted make them a fascinating subject for collectors. The values of these coins can vary greatly based on their condition, rarity, and demand among collectors. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a novice collector, Shield Nickels offer an intriguing glimpse into the past and a valuable addition to any collection.
Investing in Shield Nickels can be a rewarding endeavor, both financially and historically. As with any collectible, it’s essential to do thorough research and seek the expertise of reputable dealers when buying or selling these coins. The market for Shield Nickels continues to evolve, and staying informed about their values and trends can help collectors make informed decisions.
In conclusion, the top 15 most valuable Shield Nickels showcase the allure and historical significance of this fascinating series. Whether you’re drawn to their unique design, historical context, or potential value, Shield Nickels offer a captivating journey through American numismatic history. So, if you ever come across one of these coins, take a moment to appreciate the history and craftsmanship that went into creating these remarkable pieces of currency.
