Numismatic

1897 Liberty Head V Nickel AU

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The 1897 Liberty Head nickel represents a classic era of United States minor coinage. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this five-cent piece is composed of base metal rather than precious silver or gold, yet it carries an artistic elegance that captures the aesthetic sensibilities of the late nineteenth century. On the obverse, the design showcases the profile of Liberty. She wears a coronet or crown inscribed with her name, surrounded by stars representing the nation. The year 1897 is clearly struck beneath her portrait, anchoring the coin to the final years of the Victorian era. The reverse of the coin is dominated by a large Roman numeral V, representing the five-cent denomination. This central numeral is encircled by a decorative wreath, which is in turn surrounded by the legend naming the United States of America. Above the wreath, the traditional motto E Pluribus Unum is inscribed, completing a design that is both functional and rich in detail.