Numismatic

1896 Liberty Head V Nickel VF

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The 1896 Liberty Head nickel, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, represents a classic era of United States coinage. This five-cent piece, preserved in Very Fine condition, showcases the intricate details of late nineteenth-century American currency. Crafted by Charles Barber, the coin features a distinct aesthetic that captured the spirit of its time. On the obverse, Liberty is depicted facing left, adorned with a coronet or crown. The word LIBERTY is inscribed within her hair, flanked by stars and the 1896 date below. This portrait offers a dignified representation of the national icon, rendered with crisp detail that remains visible even after decades of circulation. The reverse of the coin is dominated by a large Roman numeral V, representing the denomination of five cents. This central numeral is encircled by a wreath of corn, wheat, and cotton. Surrounding this central design are the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the traditional motto E PLURIBUS UNUM, completing a balanced and historic composition.