Numismatic

1896 Liberty Head V Nickel AU

---

The 1896 Liberty Head five-cent piece offers a fascinating glimpse into late nineteenth-century American coinage. Struck in copper-nickel at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin belongs to the beloved Liberty Head series, which circulated widely during a dynamic era of industrial growth. The design represents a classic era of United States coinage, showcasing intricate artistry on a small canvas. On the obverse, the profile of Liberty faces left, adorned with a coronet or crown that proudly displays the word LIBERTY. The year 1896 is anchored at the bottom, framed by stars. This side of the coin was modeled by Charles Barber, whose work defined much of the nation's circulating currency during this period. The reverse is dominated by a large Roman numeral V, representing the five-cent denomination. This central numeral is encircled by a delicate wreath of wheat, cotton, and corn. Arching above the wreath is the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, while the traditional motto E PLURIBUS UNUM is positioned at the bottom, separated by stars. This particular example survives in Almost Uncirculated condition, preserving the sharp details of the original engraving.