Numismatic

1897 Liberty Head V Nickel Fine

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The 1897 Liberty Head five-cent piece offers a fascinating glimpse into late nineteenth-century American coinage. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this base-metal coin contains no precious metal, yet it carries a wealth of artistic detail. The obverse presents a left-facing portrait of Liberty, who wears a crown inscribed with her name. Surrounding her profile are thirteen stars, with the year 1897 anchored at the bottom. On the reverse, the coin features its most distinctive element, a large Roman numeral V. This central symbol is encircled by a decorative wreath. Above the wreath, the motto E Pluribus Unum is clearly displayed, while the words United States of America and Cents frame the outer border. This particular specimen survives in Fine condition, showing honest wear that tells the story of its journey through daily commerce over a century ago.