When all silver coins, including 5¢ half dimes, disappeared from circulation during the Civil War era due to hoarding, the U.S. Mint introduced the first nickel 5¢ pieces in 1866 to help make change. Featuring a shield on the obverse and the denomination within stars on the reverse, the 1866-1883 Shield nickels were widely used in commerce. Most examples that exist today are extensively worn from handling.
Thanks to our recent purchase of the largest hoard of 19th-century U.S. coins we've ever seen, you can now get these desirable grades that are seldom available. Add a historic Shield nickel over 130 years old to your collection today in attractive yet affordable condition!
Thanks to our recent purchase of the largest hoard of 19th-century U.S. coins we've ever seen, you can now get these desirable grades that are seldom available. Add a historic Shield nickel over 130 years old to your collection today in attractive yet affordable condition!