1873 Shield Nickel Open 3 VF
Numismatic
1873 Shield Nickel Open 3 VF
The 1873 Shield Nickel offers a window into the post-Civil War era of United States coinage. This five-cent piece, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, presents a design that is deeply rooted in American national identity. The obverse displays a prominent shield, which was modeled after the coat of arms found on the Great Seal of the United States. Positioned above this central emblem is the familiar national motto, IN GOD WE TRUST, with the year 1873 appearing below. On the reverse, the coin features the numeral 5, representing its face value of five cents. This denomination is surrounded by a ring of thirteen stars, symbolizing the original colonies that formed the nation. The inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and CENTS frame this central reverse design. Created by James Longacre, this nickel represents a classic era of base-metal coinage, surviving today in Very Fine condition.
Fair market value
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Prices shown are estimated fair market values based on live spot prices and typical dealer ask premiums. They are provided for informational purposes only and are not an offer to buy or sell. The price a dealer will pay for an item (bid) is typically 10–20% below the values shown, depending on the item, its condition, and current market conditions.
Specifications
| Country | United States |
|---|---|
| Year | 1873 |
| Grade | Very Fine |
| Legal-tender face value | 5 Cents |
| Metal | Other |
| Weight | 0.0000 troy oz |
| Diameter | 20.5 mm |
| Thickness | 1.95 mm |
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