coins \ Coin \ United States of America \ 5c \ Shield Nickels \ 1866 \ Philadelphia
Shield Nickels are a type of five-cent coin minted in the United States from 1866 to 1883. Designed by engraver James B. Longacre, the coin features a shield on the obverse, symbolizing protection and strength, while the reverse displays a simple design with the denomination "5 C" inside a laurel wreath. The first Shield Nickels were produced at the Philadelphia mint in 1866, marking the transition from the previous three-cent nickel to a larger five-cent denomination. These coins are of particular interest to collectors due to their historical significance and varying mintages.
| Item | Denomination | Series | Year | Mint | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1866 5c Rays | 5c | Shield Nickels | 1866 | Philadelphia |