Numismatic

1883 Liberty Head V Nickel No Cents AU

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In 1883, the United States Mint introduced a brand-new five-cent coin design that would quickly spark widespread intrigue. This first-year issue, created by Chief Engraver Charles Barber, is famous for what it lacks. The reverse features a prominent Roman numeral V surrounded by a wreath and the national motto, but it completely omits the word "Cents." This brief, initial production run created a distinct one-year subtype that remains one of the most famous design anomalies in American numismatic history. The obverse of this coin presents a classic portrait of Liberty facing left, adorned with a coronet or crown inscribed with her name. Thirteen stars encircle the portrait, with the date 1883 positioned at the bottom. On the reverse, the large "V" is embraced by a wreath of wheat, cotton, and corn, with the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" framing the design. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this particular specimen survives in Almost Uncirculated condition. It offers observers a wonderful opportunity to study the crisp details of Barber's original, unmodified 1883 vision before the design was altered later that same year to include the denomination's name.