Coin and Paper Money Collecting/U.S. SHIELD NICKEL

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Expert: - 4/17/2009


Question
i have a silvery coin with "united states of america", "5 cents", and thirteen 6-pointed stars on one side, and a shield with leafy/flowery somethings hanging down either side of it on the other side.  the date is worn, but could be 1866 or 1883 or 1888.  it also seems to have some very worn writing across the top of this side, but i can't make it out.  any information you could give me about this coin would be greatly appreciated!

Answer

18XXNickTrudys
Hello Trudy,                            

You are describing a Shield Nickel. They were made from 1866 to 1883. There were 2 types made the first having markings known as rays between the stars. So if you have the markings between the stars it would be an 1866.
The second type started in 1867 with an empty space between the stars. If it is plain surface between the stars it is an 1883.
The 1888 would be a Liberty Head Nickel. I am including all in the image I send with this answer.

With the wear you describe the coin is worth less than $5 dollars depending on any other problems it may have they often sell for around a dollar as a type coin.

I will be glad to find more information for you!  Just write me back with the type you have.

Good Luck,

PapaJack
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PAPAJACK

Expertise

Knowledge of United States Coins from 1793 to date. Able to answer most common numismatic questions. Collected U.S. Coins from half cent to 50 dollar gold coins.

Experience

QUALITY CONTROL
United States Coin COLLECTOR/DEALER OVER 20 YEARS, U.S. COINS Worked trade shows,
EXPERT Consulting since 1990, Knowledge of all methods of fabrication used in the industry.
Hobbies:US notes, clocks, cars, computers, coins, leisure activity and crafts to name a few.

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