Designed by: James Barton Longacre
Issue Dates: 1867-1883
Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel
Diameter: 20.5 mm
Weight: 5.00 grams (77.16 grains)
Edge: Plain
Business Strike Mintage: 111,256,110

The Shield nickel style of 1867-1883 is similar to that of 1866 except that the 13 rays between the stars on the reverse have been eliminated. This alleviated the problem of weak striking to an extent, with the result that Shield nickels of this type are generally better struck than earlier pieces, although the majority of surviving coins show weakness in one area or another. Die breakage was a common occurrence, and often inspection with a magnifying glass will reward the viewer with a glimpse of a myriad of tiny cracks, which lend interest to a coin. From 1867 through 1883 coinage was continuous, although in 1877 and 1878 no business strikes were produced; the issues of those two years were limited to Proofs for collectors.

Numismatists will have no difficulty obtaining a common date such as most years from 1867 through 1876, and also 1882 and 1883, in any grade desired from Good through AU. Uncirculated pieces are scarce and superb Uncirculated pieces are rare. Proofs were made in fairly large numbers for collectors and are readily available, although most uncleaned examples show light flecks or spots as a result of moisture over the years.