1866 Shield Nickel - Rays
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Auction Record
- Price realized
- $17,038
- Sold
- Grade
- MS66+
- Auction house
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions
Description
The 1866 Shield Nickel - Rays is a nickel from the Philadelphia Mint, belonging to the Shield Nickels 1866-1883 series. The Philadelphia Mint struck 14,742,500 With Rays Shield nickels dated 1866. The obverse features a large Union shield with a motto ribbon and crossed arrows behind it and the reverse displays a large numeral 5 surrounded by stars and rays. First year of the Shield Nickel and the first copper-nickel five-cent coin. The "With Rays" reverse was used this year and early 1867. Struck in 75% copper, 25% nickel, weighing 5 grams, 20.5 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #3790.
External References
Error Varieties(17)
1866 Repunched Date WRPD-001
CU-5c-1866-01 Cud
CU-5c-1866-05 Rim Cud
CU-5c-1866-07 Cud
PC-5c-1866-01 Pre-Cud
PC-5c-1866-02 Pre-Cud
PC-5c-1866-04, 05 & 06 Pre-Cud
RCD-5c-1866-01 Retained Cud
RCD-5C-1866-02 Retained Cud
RCD-5c-1866-03R Retained Cud
RCD-5c-1866-04R Retained Cud
RCD-5c-1866-05 Retained Cud
RCD-5C-1866-06 Retained Cud
RCD-5C-1866-07 Retained Cud
RCD-5c-1866-08 Retained Cud
RCD-5c-1866-09 Retained Cud
RCD-5c-1866-10 Retained Cud
Other Strike Types in This Series
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