Numismatic

1882 Shield Nickel AU

---

The 1882 Shield Nickel represents a fascinating chapter in late nineteenth-century American coinage. Struck in copper-nickel at the Philadelphia Mint, this five-cent piece showcases the artistic vision of James Longacre. The coin's face displays a prominent shield, which draws its inspiration directly from the coat of arms found on the Great Seal of the United States. Above this central motif, the timeless national motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is inscribed, with the date "1882" positioned clearly at the bottom. On the reverse side, the design shifts to focus on the denomination. The number five is encircled by a ring of thirteen stars, symbolizing the original colonies that formed the nation. This official United States government issue, preserved in Almost Uncirculated condition, offers a wonderful opportunity to study the intricate details of a design that helped define the look of post-Civil War American currency.