1869 Shield Nickel
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
$11,750 MS66+ CAC 11-08-2013 Stack's Bowers
Description
The 1869 Shield Nickel is a nickel produced at the Philadelphia Mint as part of the Shield Nickels 1866-1883 series. The U.S. Mint produced 16.4 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 within a circle of stars, without rays. Minted during Reconstruction and the Gilded Age, as the nation healed from civil war and debated the role of silver and gold in the monetary system. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $38 to $281 depending on grade and condition. Struck in 75% copper, 25% nickel, weighing 5 grams, 20.5 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #3796.
External References
Error Varieties(12)
CU-5c-1869-03 Cud
PC-5c-1869-06 Cud
PC-5c-1869-06 Pre-Cud
PC-5c-1869-09 Cud
PC-5c-1869-09 Pre-Cud
RCD-5c-1869-01 & 02 Retained Cud
RCD-5c-1869-03 Retained Cud
RCD-5c-1869-04 Retained Cud
RCD-5c-1869-05 Retained Cud
RCD-5c-1869-07 Retained Cud
RCD-5c-1869-08 Retained Cud
