The coin in question is an 1872 Shield Nickel, a notable piece of U.S. numismatic history, minted at the Philadelphia Mint. This particular coin is classified under the denomination of 5 cents, commonly referred to as a nickel. It is composed of a Copper-Nickel alloy, weighing 5 grams and featuring a diameter of approximately 20.5 millimeters. The Shield Nickel series, produced from 1866 to 1883, is characterized by its obverse design depicting a shield, symbolizing protection and strength. The reverse showcases the numeral "5" encircled by laurel leaves, representing peace and victory. With a total mintage of 6,036,000 coins in this year, the 1872 Shield Nickel is a significant collector's item. This coin bears the mint mark 'P', indicating its Philadelphia origin, which was the primary minting location for this series. Given its historical context and design, the 1872 Shield Nickel is a sought-after piece for numismatists focusing on American coinage, especially those interested in series that highlight the evolving aesthetics and symbolism of U.S. currency in the late 19th century. In terms of collectibility, the grade of the coin will significantly influence its market value. Coins that are well-preserved or graded higher (such as MS or AU) are generally more desirable to collectors compared to those with significant wear or damage.
| currency | USD |
| currency-amount | 0.05 |
| diameter | 20.5 |
| height | 0 |
| material | Copper-Nickel |
| mint-mark | P |
| mintage | 6036000 |
| type | Coins |
| weight | 5 |
| width | 0 |
| year-display | 1872 |