Numismatic

1890 Liberty Head V Nickel AU

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In 1890, the Philadelphia Mint produced a five-cent piece that beautifully captured the artistic transition of late nineteenth-century American coinage. This base metal coin, containing no precious metal, showcases the intricate work of engraver Charles Barber. The obverse features a left-facing portrait of Liberty, her hair styled with a coronet or crown that proudly displays her name. Thirteen stars encircle her profile, with the year 1890 anchored at the bottom. The reverse of the coin is dominated by a large Roman numeral V, representing its five-cent denomination. This central symbol is framed by a decorative wreath of agricultural products, including wheat, corn, and cotton. Arching above the wreath is the national origin, United States of America, while the traditional motto, E Pluribus Unum, is positioned at the base. This particular specimen survives in Almost Uncirculated condition, preserving the fine details of the original engraving.