U.S. Shield Nickels (1866-1883)

Learn More About U.S. Shield Nickels (1866-1883)

The U.S. Shield Nickel was the first true five-cent nickel, struck with nickel just after the Civil War ended. Shield Nickels were in circulation at the same time as the half-dime, which also had a value of 5/100ths of a dollar. Designed by U.S. Mint engraver James Longacre, the Shield Nickel features a Union shield surrounded by laurel wreaths on the front. Its reverse side has a large number “5” in the center of 13 stars, which are surrounded by the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the word “CENTS” at the very bottom. Distinct varieties of the Shield Nickel include versions with rays between the 13 stars from 1866-1867 and no rays from 1867-1883.  

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