1874 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
$15,000 MS68 03-09-2023 eBay
Description
The 1874 Shield Nickel is a nickel minted at the Philadelphia Mint, within the Shield Nickels 1866-1883 series. With a mintage of 3.5 million, this is a less common issue — the higher-mintage of the two mint variants, representing 100% 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. Philadelphia's mint — the nation's first — has produced coins without interruption since its founding in 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $43 to $407 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 #3803.
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