1879 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
$12,000 MS67 11-18-2020 Stack's Bowers
Description
Part of the Shield Nickels 1866-1883 series, the 1879 Shield Nickel is a nickel from the Philadelphia Mint. With a mintage of 25,900, this is an extremely rare issue — the highest mintage among 3 variants, accounting for 80% of the year's 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. Proof-only year. Mintage limited to proof sets for collectors. Coined at the Philadelphia facility, the nation's original mint that has operated continuously since its 1792 founding. Estimated market value ranges from $527 to $2.8K 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 #3808.
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