1880 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
$198,995 MS66 01-03-2023 eBay
Description
A nickel from the Philadelphia Mint, the 1880 Shield Nickel belongs to the Shield Nickels 1866-1883 series. With a mintage of 16,000, this is an extremely rare issue — the higher-mintage of the two mint variants, representing 80% 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. Final proof-only year. Business strike production resumed in 1881. Coined at the Philadelphia facility, the nation's original mint that has operated continuously since its 1792 founding. Estimated market value ranges from $2.3K to $31K 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 #3810.
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