Whitman Expo
1879 Nickel MS Values
Details
No Shield Nickels were struck in 1877 and 1878; but, in the 1879 comeback, just 25,900 were minted making it the second lowest mintage for the series. Scarce in all grades and entering the realm of rarity in its finest high-end gem grades. Also a very appealing issue that comes with incredible luster and a full, strong strike.
Obverse: A shield flanked on the left and right by leaves topped with a cross with arrows positioned behind at the bottom so the arrow heads and shanks protrude at the sides. The motto IN GOD WE TRUST appears at the top periphery with the date positioned at the bottom center.
Reverse: A large numeral 5 surrounded by 13 stars centered in the design with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA * CENTS around the periphery.
Mint & Coinage Details
Mint Location:
Philadelphia
Mintage:
25,900
Coinage Type:
Shield nickel
Coinage Years:
1867-1883
Composition:
75% copper; 25% nickel
Physical Characteristics
Weight:
5 gr
Weight:
0.1608 oz
Strike Type:
Business
Diameter:
20.5 mm
Coin Shape:
Round
Design Details
Designer:
James B. Longacre
Obverse Lettering:
IN GOD WE TRUST, 1879
Obverse Designer:
James B. Longacre
Reverse Lettering:
5, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, CENTS
Reverse Designer:
James B. Longacre
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