Numismatic

1867 Shield Nickel w/o Rays XF

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The 1867 Shield Nickel represents a fascinating moment in the evolution of United States coinage. This particular variety is notable for its clean reverse design, which lacks the rays that were present between the stars on earlier issues of the series. Struck in a copper-nickel alloy, this five-cent piece carries the weight of a sovereign nation, fully backed by the United States government. On the obverse, a detailed shield dominates the design, drawing its inspiration directly from the coat of arms found on the Great Seal of the United States. Above this central emblem, the timeless national motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is inscribed, while the year of production, 1867, is positioned clearly at the bottom. This patriotic imagery was created by James Longacre. The reverse of the coin presents a bold numeral 5, representing its denomination, centered within a circular frame of 13 stars. Surrounding this stellar arrangement are the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "CENTS". This specimen, preserved in Extra Fine condition, offers a wonderful opportunity to study the intricate details of a post-Civil War era coin that circulated during a period of national reconstruction.