Numismatic

1891 Liberty Head V Nickel Fine

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The five cent piece underwent a classic transformation in the late nineteenth century, resulting in the iconic Liberty Head design. This 1891 issue, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, showcases the artistry of Charles Barber. The obverse features a left-facing portrait of Liberty adorned with a coronet, surrounded by stars with the date positioned at the bottom. On the reverse, the coin displays a prominent Roman numeral V, representing its five-cent value. This central numeral is encircled by a decorative wreath, which is itself surrounded by the legends indicating the nation of origin and the traditional motto, E Pluribus Unum. Surviving in Fine condition, this copper-nickel coin offers a tangible look at the everyday currency that circulated during the late Victorian era in the United States.