The 1873 Shield Nickel (Buy on eBay) had a slight design change during the year, creating two different varieties. The last numeral “3” in the date appeared somewhat closed at the open end, making it appear like an “8”. The digit was altered to make the ends more open. Thus the “close 3” and “open 3” varieties were created.
The 1873 Shield Nickel “Close 3” had a more limited mintage of 436,050 than the “Open 3” with a mintage of 4,113,950, but the coins are priced about the same. All proof coins produced for the year have the “close 3” type.
Coin Specifications
- Designer: James B. Longacre
- Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
- Weight: 5 grams
- Diameter: 20.5 mm
- Edge: Plain
