5 Cents "1866 Shield Nickel" (Pattern) 1866 front 5 Cents "1866 Shield Nickel" (Pattern) 1866 back
5 Cents "1866 Shield Nickel" (Pattern) 1866 photo
© Heritage Auctions

5 Cents "1866 Shield Nickel" Pattern

1866 year
- - -
Description
Issuer
United States
Period
Federal republic (1776-date)
Type
Pattern
Year
1866
Value
5 Cents (0.05&nbspUSD)
Currency
Dollar (1785-date)
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#124010
Rarity index
94%

Reverse

Dutch "5" center within wreath, and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" above.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
5

Edge

Plain

Interesting fact

The 1866 Shield Nickel is a rare and unique coin that was never circulated, making it a highly sought-after collector's item. It features a shield on the obverse (front) side, which was a departure from the traditional Liberty Head design used on other coins at the time. This shield design was ultimately rejected in favor of the Liberty Head design, making the 1866 Shield Nickel a one-of-a-kind piece in the history of US coinage.