1870 Proof 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
$3,163 PR66 11-15-2011 Stack's Bowers
Description
The 1870 Proof Shield Nickel is a proof nickel struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Shield Nickels 1866-1883 series. With a mintage of 1,000, this is an extremely rare issue — the scarcer of two mint variants, with less than 1% of total 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. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value is approximately $468. Struck in 75% copper, 25% nickel, weighing 5 grams, 20.5 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #3824.
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