1888 Liberty Head Nickel
Base
About This Coin
The 1888 Liberty Head Nickel is a United States nickel from the Liberty Head Nickels 1883-1912 series — an early issue, 6th of 31 years in the series. In 1888, coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint with a combined mintage of 10.7 million. This ranks 7th of 31 years by total mintage, below the series median of 16.8 million. The obverse features Liberty facing left wearing a coronet inscribed LIBERTY, surrounded by stars and the reverse displays a Roman numeral V (five) within a wreath of corn, cotton, and wheat. Struck during the Gilded Age of rapid industrialization and the great silver debates, when monetary policy shaped elections and economic destiny. Struck in 75% copper, 25% nickel, weighing 5 grams, 21.2 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Collectors have identified one known die variety for this date (repunched date). Across its variants, estimated values range from $38 to $438 depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $24K in MS66 grade at Stack's Bowers. Designed by Charles E. Barber.
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — range across all strike types, reflecting typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
