1877 Proof Shield Nickel
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-67). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$8,625 PR67 05-25-2005 American Numismatic Rarities
Description
The 1877 Proof Shield Nickel is a proof nickel struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Shield Nickels 1866-1883 series. With a mintage of only 510, this is an extremely rare issue. The obverse features a large Union shield with a motto ribbon and crossed arrows behind it, while the reverse displays a large numeral 5 within a circle of stars, without rays. Designed by James Barton Longacre. Struck in 75% copper, 25% nickel, weighing 5 grams, 20.5 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #3831. The Shield Nickel was the first five-cent coin struck in the copper-nickel alloy that gives the "nickel" its name. The 1866 Rays variety and 1883/2 overdate are key varieties. Low-mintage proof-only dates exist toward the end of the series.
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