The coin in question is a 1873 Shield Nickel, a notable piece of American numismatic history. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin is a part of the Shield Nickel series designed by James Barton Longacre. The coin has a unique composition consisting of 75% copper and 25% nickel, which gives it a distinctive appearance and feel. With a diameter of 20.5 mm and a weight of 5 grams, the coin features a plain edge, a characteristic typical of many coins from this era. The Shield Nickel was produced during a period of transition for U.S. coinage, moving away from earlier designs to embrace more modern themes. The 1873 Shield Nickel had a mintage of 4,550,000 pieces, which was relatively high for its time, contributing to its availability on the secondary market. As a denomination of $3, this coin represents value far beyond its face worth, particularly for collectors and enthusiasts of American history and coinage. Its design captures the essence of a nation in transformation, with the shield symbolizing strength and protection, an enduring theme in American currency. Coin collectors value this piece not only for its monetary worth but also for its representation of a significant period in U.S. history. The absence of a mint mark indicates it was produced without any distinguishing verification of place within the Philadelphia production facilities. In summary, the 1873 Shield Nickel is a compelling item for collectors looking to enrich their collections with historical U.S. coins, embodying both artistry and the economic context of its time.
| currency | USD |
| currency-amount | 3 |
| designer | James Barton Longacre |
| diameter | 20.5 |
| edge-type | Plain |
| height | 0 |
| material | 75% Copper, 25% Nickel |
| mint-mark | None |
| mintage | 4550000 |
| type | Coins |
| weight | 5 |
| width | 0 |
| year-display | 1873 |