1868 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
$7,638 MS67 02-05-2014 Stack's Bowers
Description
The 1868 Shield Nickel is a nickel produced at the Philadelphia Mint as part of the Shield Nickels 1866-1883 series. The U.S. Mint produced 28.8 million examples, making this the higher-mintage of the two mint variants, representing 99% 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 #3795.
External References
Error Varieties(7)
RCD-5c-1868-01 Retained Cud
RCD-5c-1868-02 Retained Cud
RCD-5c-1868-03 Retained Cud
RCD-5c-1868-04 Retained Cud
RCD-5c-1868-05 Retained Cud
RCD-5c-1868-06 Retained Cud
