Description:
The 1879 Shield Nickel, certified by NGC as VF25, is one of the rarest business strike issues in the Shield Nickel series (1866–1883). With a reported mintage of just 25,900 coins, the 1879 is considered a key date, highly sought after by type and series collectors alike. This certified example displays even wear with clear remaining detail, making it a collectible mid-grade representative of this elusive 19th-century nickel.
Specifications:
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Denomination: Five Cents (5¢)
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Year of Issue: 1879
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Mint: Philadelphia (no mintmark)
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Designer: James B. Longacre
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Series: Shield Nickel (1866–1883)
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Composition: Copper-Nickel (75% copper, 25% nickel)
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Diameter: 20.5 mm
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Weight: 5 grams
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Grade: VF25
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Certification: NGC
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Holder: NGC-certified slab
Highlights:
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Certified VF25 by NGC
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Extremely low mintage of only 25,900 coins
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Recognized as a key date in the Shield Nickel series
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Designed by James B. Longacre, Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint
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Obverse: Shield with cross and laurel wreath
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Reverse: Large numeral “5” surrounded by stars
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Important collectible for nickel and type set collectors
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Mid-grade certified example of a scarce date
Historical Note:
The Shield Nickel was the first five-cent piece struck in copper-nickel alloy, replacing the silver half dime. By 1879, production numbers had dropped sharply, with only 25,900 coins struck, making this issue one of the lowest-mintage nickels in U.S. history. Its rarity has secured its reputation as a key date within the series, and certified examples are prized by specialists. This VF25 coin offers collectors an affordable way to add this classic rarity to their collection.
Searching for more certified Shield Nickels or key-date U.S. coins? Contact us — we carry a curated selection of early nickels and historic 19th-century coinage.
