The 1884 Liberty Head nickel is the second year of issue for this prominent U.S. coin series. Designed by U.S. Mint chief engraver Charles E. Barber, the Liberty Head nickel features a large Roman numeral V (five) on the reverse. As a result, many people began calling these coins "V nickels" and this informal name is widely used today. Struck from 1883-1912, Liberty Head nickels are prized collectibles from the fascinating transitional period of the late 19th century to the early 20th century.