1868 Shield Nickel

Updated September 4, 2026

An 1868 Shield nickel, the first five cent piece the United States struck in copper nickel rather than silver. The date is clear below the shield. This is the no rays reverse, with the large 5 ringed by thirteen stars and no ray lines between them. Philadelphia struck them all, so there is no mint mark, and both faces are fully shown with no letter anywhere. It appears to grade about Good to Very Good. The vertical stripes in the shield are still distinct while the horizontal shading at the top is worn away, and the leaf and scroll work is soft and partly merged. On the reverse the 5, stars and lettering are complete though the field is worn smooth. Color is dull olive gray and brown with darker tone in the recesses. There is no rim damage, no corrosion and no cleaning brightness. History worth knowing: rays sat between the stars in 1866 and early 1867, then the Mint dropped them because the crowded design cracked dies and struck up poorly. This alloy holds no silver and no melt value. Estimated Value: $10 to $20. Sold as-is. Photos are the most accurate description of this lot. Written descriptions are a guide only and may contain errors. Please review all photos before bidding.

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