-
Inventory:
OUT OF STOCK
- Product ID: 15655
Checkout
The 1887 Liberty V Nickel is a significant coin within the U.S. Mint's coinage history, representing an era of transition and modernization in American currency. Issued during the presidency of Grover Cleveland, the 1887 nickel is part of the Liberty V Nickel series, which was first introduced in 1883. This series marked the shift from the Shield Nickel to a more streamlined and iconic design that would be used until 1913, when it was replaced by the Barber Nickel. The Liberty V Nickel is an example of the U.S. Mint's attempt to create a more practical and visually distinctive five-cent coin, reflecting the country’s economic growth and the need for a standardized currency system. The 1887 coin, like its predecessors, would become an integral part of American commerce and is now considered a valuable collectible item.
The design of the 1887 Liberty V Nickel, created by Charles E. Barber, features a bold and simple approach that contrasts with the more intricate designs of previous coins. The obverse of the coin showcases a large Roman numeral "V" at the center, representing the coin’s five-cent value. Surrounding this "V" are the inscriptions “LIBERTY” at the top and the year “1887” at the bottom. The "V" is encircled by a laurel wreath, which symbolizes honor, victory, and achievement. The reverse of the coin features a wreath composed of laurel and oak leaves, symbolizing strength and endurance. In the center of the reverse is the word “CENTS,” denoting the coin’s denomination. Above the wreath are the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” and below, the phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” which translates to “Out of many, one.” This design, with its classical symbols and clean lines, represents a turning point in U.S. coinage and reflects the country’s growth and modernization during the late 19th century.
The 1887 Liberty V Nickel was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which has been the primary minting facility for the United States since its establishment in 1792. The Philadelphia Mint has long been a central hub for producing American coinage, and by the time the 1887 Liberty V Nickel was issued, the Mint had already refined its techniques to ensure consistent and high-quality coin production. The 1887 Liberty V Nickel was composed of an alloy of 75% copper and 25% nickel, which was the standard composition for five-cent coins of the era. This mixture of copper and nickel gave the coin its characteristic silver-like appearance and provided the necessary durability for widespread circulation. The 1887 coin weighs 5 grams and has a diameter of 21.2 millimeters, dimensions that were standard for the nickel denomination at the time. The Mint employed high-quality dies and presses to strike the coin, ensuring that each piece had a sharp design and that the details were clearly visible, even after years of circulation.
The mintage of the 1887 Liberty V Nickel was substantial, with approximately 24 million coins struck that year. This large mintage ensured that the coin was widely circulated throughout the United States and played a significant role in daily transactions. As a result, the 1887 Liberty V Nickel is not considered particularly rare in terms of its mintage, especially compared to other coins with much lower production numbers. However, the coin's historical significance, combined with its relatively low survival rate in high grades, makes well-preserved examples particularly valuable. Coins that were heavily circulated often suffered from wear, leading to the fading of details on the coin. For collectors, this makes examples in higher grades highly desirable, as they represent a rare glimpse into the coin’s original design before it was worn down by everyday use.
The condition of the 1887 Liberty V Nickel is a critical factor in determining its value, with coins graded as Very Fine (VF) being considered highly collectible. A coin in Very Fine condition, such as the example being discussed, shows moderate wear, but the key design elements remain visible. On the obverse, the “V” and the surrounding inscriptions such as “LIBERTY” and the date “1887” should still be easily readable, though they may be slightly softened due to circulation. The laurel wreath surrounding the “V” may show some signs of wear, but its shape and design will still be discernible. On the reverse, the wreath surrounding the word “CENTS” will have some wear, but the overall design will remain recognizable. While the coin may have light scratches, slight discoloration, or small abrasions due to handling over the years, these signs of circulation do not detract from the overall appeal of the coin, which remains a beautiful example of American numismatic artistry. Coins in Very Fine condition represent a balanced blend of affordability and collectability, and they are often the most desirable for collectors who seek historically significant pieces without the premium prices of higher-grade specimens.
The 1887 Liberty V Nickel is a quintessential example of late 19th-century American coinage. The simplicity and boldness of the design reflect the growing industrial and economic strength of the United States during this time. The 1887 Liberty V Nickel was minted during the presidency of Grover Cleveland, a time of economic change and political stability in the U.S. The country was experiencing the effects of the Second Industrial Revolution, which saw a shift toward mechanized manufacturing, urbanization, and technological advancement. Coins like the Liberty V Nickel played a key role in facilitating the growth of commerce and trade, as they were used for everyday transactions by Americans from all walks of life. The 1887 coin represents a transitional period in the U.S. Mint’s coinage, bridging the gap between the more intricate designs of earlier coins and the streamlined designs that would follow in the 20th century.
For collectors, the 1887 Liberty V Nickel is an essential addition to a collection of U.S. coins. As part of the larger Liberty V Nickel series, it is highly regarded for its simple yet elegant design, which captures the spirit of the late 19th century in the United States. The 1887 issue is particularly valuable for collectors who specialize in U.S. coinage from this era or for those who focus on nickel coins. The coin’s widespread circulation and its relatively large mintage make it an accessible collectible, but the limited number of coins that have survived in higher grades increases its desirability. Collectors can also appreciate the historical significance of the coin, as it reflects the ongoing changes in U.S. society during a time of economic growth and modernization.
In conclusion, the 1887 Liberty V Nickel is an important and beautiful coin that represents a significant moment in the history of U.S. coinage. The coin’s simple yet striking design, combined with its historical context, makes it a valuable collectible for numismatists and a meaningful piece of American heritage. The 1887 Liberty V Nickel remains a key item for collectors interested in 19th-century U.S. coinage, particularly those who focus on the Liberty V Nickel series. The coin's large mintage and relatively widespread circulation make it accessible to collectors, while its limited survival in higher grades ensures its continued demand and value. Whether for its historical significance, aesthetic appeal, or potential as an investment, the 1887 Liberty V Nickel is a prized piece in the world of American numismatics.