Numismatic

1867 Shield Nickel w/o Rays VG

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In 1867, the United States Mint produced a five-cent coin that departed from traditional silver coinage. This piece, known as the Shield Nickel, features a bold obverse design by James Longacre. At its center is a large shield, modeled after the coat of arms found on the Great Seal of the United States. This motif served as a powerful symbol of national unity during the era of its creation. Above the shield, the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is inscribed, while the date 1867 is positioned directly below. The reverse of the coin focuses on simplicity and national identity. It displays a large numeral 5, indicating its face value of five cents, which is encircled by a ring of thirteen stars. The surrounding inscription reads "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA". This particular issue is the variety without rays, a design modification that simplified the reverse layout. This specimen has survived in Very Good condition, showing honest wear from its time in circulation while still preserving its historic design elements.