Numismatic

1887 Liberty Head V Nickel VF

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Introduced during the late nineteenth century, this 1887 five-cent piece represents a classic era of United States coinage. Crafted from base metal rather than silver or gold, the coin is a durable survivor of daily commerce from the Gilded Age. This particular specimen has survived in Very Fine condition, showing pleasing detail from its time in circulation. The obverse showcases a left-facing portrait of Liberty, styled with a coronet or crown upon her head. The word LIBERTY is inscribed on her crown, with the date 1887 positioned below the portrait. Thirteen stars encircle the central image, representing the original colonies. On the reverse, the design centers around a large Roman numeral V, which denotes the five-cent face value. This central numeral is encircled by a wreath, which is itself surrounded by the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. The traditional motto E PLURIBUS UNUM is positioned at the bottom, completing a design created by Charles Barber.