1866 Shield Nickel - Rays
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$17,038 MS66+ 07-15-2021 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 U.S. Mint produced 14.7 million examples, making this the higher-mintage of the two mint variants, representing 100% of production. 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. Coined at the Philadelphia facility, the nation's original mint that has operated continuously since its 1792 founding. Estimated market value ranges from $73 to $4.1K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 75% copper, 25% nickel, weighing 1.94 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 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 Rim 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
Collector Essentials
Tools and references for building and protecting your coin collection.
10x-20x Jeweler's Loupe
A must-have for examining coin details, mint marks, and surface quality
Red Book — Guide to U.S. Coins
The essential annual reference for U.S. coin values, history, and mintages
Coin Albums & Storage
Archival-quality albums and holders to protect and display your collection
USB Digital Microscope
Capture detailed images for documentation and community submissions
As an Amazon Associate, NumisDex earns from qualifying purchases.