U.S. Shield Nickels
(1866 - 1883)
The Shield Nickel was the first five-cent coin struck in copper-nickel, replacing the earlier silver half dime. Produced from 1866 to 1883, it was introduced in the aftermath of the Civil War when silver coins had largely disappeared from circulation and base-metal coinage was needed for everyday commerce.
The obverse features a large Union shield, symbolizing national unity following the war, while the reverse displays a prominent numeral “5” surrounded by stars and rays (in 1866) or simply stars (1867–1883). The rays were removed after the first year due to striking difficulties, creating two distinct reverse types that collectors recognize today.
Shield Nickels are known for weak strikes and die-clash issues, particularly in the early years. Although none are considered extreme rarities in circulated grades, certain dates and varieties command strong premiums in higher condition. The series was ultimately replaced by the Liberty Head (V) Nickel in 1883.
Check out dates & mintages for U.S. Shield Nickels, below.Business Strikes
Type 1, With Rays
1866 Rays | 14,742,500
1867 Rays | 2,019,000
Type 2, No Rays
1867 No Rays | 28,890,500
1868 | 28,817,000
1869 | 16,395,000
1870 | 4,806,000
1871 | 561,000
1872 | 6,036,000
1873 Close 3 | 436,050
1873 Open 3 | 4,113,950
1874 | 3,538,000
1875 | 2,097,000
1876 | 2,530,000
1879 | 25,900
1880 | 16,000
1881 | 68,800
1882 | 11,472,900
1883 | 1,451,500
Proof Strikes
Type 1, With Rays
1866 Proof Rays | 600
1867 Proof Rays | 25
Type 2, No Rays
1867 Proof No Rays | 600
1868 Proof | 600
1869 Proof | 600
1870 Proof | 1,000
1871 Proof | 960
1872 Proof | 950
1873 Proof Closed 3 | 1,100
1874 Proof | 700
1875 Proof | 700
1876 Proof | 1,150
1877 Proof | 900
1878 Proof | 2,350
1879 Proof | 3,200
1880 Proof | 3,955
1881 Proof | 3,575
1882 Proof | 3,100
1883 Proof | 5,419
If You Collect Five-Cent Nickels, Check Out The ‘Silver Alloy War Nickels’ Type Set!
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