Numismatic

1883 Liberty Head V Nickel w/Cents BU

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In 1883, the United States Mint introduced a new look for the five-cent piece, but a quick modification was required almost immediately. This particular coin represents the very first year of issue for the corrected variety, which prominently features the word 'CENTS' on the reverse. Designed by Charles Barber, this issue is preserved in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, offering a clear window into late nineteenth-century American minting. The obverse displays a classic profile of Liberty facing left, adorned with a detailed headdress. The word 'LIBERTY' is visible within her crown, with the date '1883' positioned below her portrait. This side of the coin established a design aesthetic that would define the five-cent denomination for three decades. On the reverse, the central focus is a large Roman numeral 'V' representing the value of five. Surrounding this central numeral is a decorative wreath, which is encircled by the inscriptions 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'E PLURIBUS UNUM'. Crucially, the word 'CENTS' is emblazoned at the bottom of the design, a necessary addition that resolved confusion surrounding the coin's face value during its debut year.