The 1879 Shield Nickel (Buy on eBay) saw the resumption of circulation strike coins, but on a very limited basis. This is one of three years of the series with a mintage of less than 100,000 coins. The 1879 nickel had a mintage of 25,900 circulation strike coins and 3,200 proof coins.
Coin Specifications
- Designer: James B. Longacre
- Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
- Weight: 5 grams
- Diameter: 20.5 mm
- Edge: Plain
