1866 Shield Nickel

The 1866 Shield Nickel (Buy on eBay) was the first year of issue for the new five cent denomination struck in a composition of copper and nickel. There were 14,742,500 coins struck for circulation with an estimated 600 proof pieces produced. Some circulation strike coins exhibit a repunched date and carry a premium, particularly for higher grade examples.

Coin Specifications

  • Designer: James B. Longacre
  • Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
  • Weight: 5 grams
  • Diameter: 20.5 mm
  • Edge: Plain