10 Rarest & Most Expensive Shield Nickels for Your Collection

The Shield Nickels, built from 1866 to 1883, was the early five percent pieces in the history of the United States. They are very valuable and important historical and are a high consequence between collectors, especially rare and high -high variants. If you want to introduce valuable Shield Nickels into your collection, following are the 10 most expensive ones to collect.

History of Shield Nickels

Shield Nickel, built from 1866 to 1883, is a unique part of the American numeric story. As the first five percent coin made of nickel and copper (silver), it set the platform for modern coins. Although most Shields Nickels are affordable, some rare dates, mint errors and high quality examples can achieve astronomical prices. If you are a coin collector or investor, here is a guide for the 10 most expensive shields that can raise your collection. Rarity, Low mintage numbers for certain years and varieties.

Why Are Shield Nickels Valuable?

Condition: High-grade coins (MS-65 or better) are highly sought after.
Errors: Unique minting mistakes add significant value.
Historical Significance: As the first nickel five-cent piece, Shield Nickels are a cornerstone of U.S. coinage history.

10 Expensive Shield Nickels

1867 Shield Nickel with Rays

The 1867 Shield Nickel with Rays is among the rarest of the series. The rays between the stars on the back were removed from later issues because of striking problems. High-grade pieces can reach more than $150,000.

1866 Proof Shield Nickel

The 1866 Proof Shield Nickel is uncommon, with less than 100 specimens known. As one of the first in the series, collectors greatly value it, and gem-quality specimens have brought over $120,000 at auction.

1877 Shield Nickel

With a mintage of only 900 coins, the 1877 Shield Nickel is one of the lowest-mintage U.S. coins. Finding one in good condition is incredibly rare, and collectors have paid over $100,000 for top-graded specimens.

1868 Proof Shield Nickel

This year’s Proof coins are uncommon, and that makes them valuable. The 1868 Proof Shield Nickel is particularly rare at high grades and can sell for more than $85,000.

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1869 Shield Nickel

Because of its small mintage and the fact that high-grade specimens are difficult to locate, the 1869 Shield Nickel is extremely desirable. A top-quality coin can fetch prices in excess of $80,000.

1880 Shield Nickel

With a very small mintage of only 16,000 coins, the 1880 Shield Nickel is a very rare coin. Nicely preserved coins can readily fetch auction prices over $75,000.

1879 Shield Nickel

Yet another low-mintage issue, the 1879 Shield Nickel had only 25,900 pieces minted. Obtaining an uncirculated version is difficult, which makes them more than $70,000 in the numismatic world.

1867 No Rays Proof Shield Nickel

As opposed to the previous 1867 type with rays, this type eliminated the rays between the stars. The Proof variety of this coin is very rare and sought after, and the prices range more than $65,000.

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1871 Proof Shield Nickel

The 1871 Proof Shield Nickel is another rare variety that collectors eagerly seek out. High-grade examples will bring more than $60,000.

1878 Shield Nickel

With a mintage of only 2,350 coins, the 1878 Shield Nickel is extremely rare to find. Well-circulated samples have brought more than $55,000 on the auction floor.

Conclusion

Shield Nickels are an interesting aspect of U.S. numismatic history, and some of the rarer varieties can cost a fortune. As a collector, watch out for these high-value coins since they continue to appreciate in value. As an investor or as someone interested in history, a rare Shield Nickel is a highly coveted addition to any collection!

FAQ’s

What is a rare Shield Nickel?

Low Mintage 1880 Nickel is always a favorite among collectors, no difference as a character. Evidence of most dates is easily accessible, but is very rare in 1867 with raising.