Liberty V Nickel 1889 Fine

The Liberty V Nickel of 1889 represents a significant era in American numismatic history, reflecting both the aesthetic and practical considerations of the late 19th century. As part of the Liberty Head series, this coin encapsulates the design and monetary policies of the time, making it an essential piece for collectors and historians alike. The Liberty V Nickel, also known as the V Nickel due to its distinctive Roman numeral "V" for five, was minted from 1883 to 1912 and underwent several design modifications throughout its run. The 1889 issue is notable for its historical context and its place within the broader scope of American coinage.

The historical backdrop of the 1889 Liberty V Nickel is rooted in the economic and social changes of post-Civil War America. By the late 1880s, the United States was experiencing a period of industrial growth and economic expansion. The Liberty V Nickel was introduced in 1883 to replace the earlier Shield Nickel, which had proven less popular with the public due to its design and the technical issues associated with its production. The Liberty V Nickel was designed to be both more aesthetically pleasing and practical for circulation, incorporating features that were intended to improve its durability and usability.

The design of the 1889 Liberty V Nickel features a classic representation of Liberty, which is depicted in profile on the obverse of the coin. Liberty’s portrait is encircled by thirteen stars, symbolizing the original thirteen colonies of the United States. The Roman numeral "V" is prominently displayed on the reverse, denoting the coin's denomination of five cents. The reverse also includes the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "FIVE CENTS," arranged around the numeral. The design was the work of Charles E. Barber, who was the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint at the time. Barber's design was well-received and remained in use for nearly three decades, with only minor adjustments made to the coin's design during its production run.

The minting of the 1889 Liberty V Nickel was carried out at several of the U.S. Mint facilities, including Philadelphia, where the majority of these coins were produced. The mintage figures for the 1889 Liberty V Nickel were substantial, with approximately 18,000,000 coins struck. This high mintage reflects the coin's role in everyday transactions and its acceptance by the public. Despite the large number of coins produced, the survival rate of these coins in high grades is relatively low, contributing to the interest and value of well-preserved specimens among collectors.

In terms of condition, the 1889 Liberty V Nickel in Fine grade is characterized by moderate wear but still retains key details of its design. In Fine condition, the coin will exhibit significant signs of circulation, such as scratches, dings, and wear on the high points of the design. The details of Liberty’s profile and the Roman numeral "V" on the reverse may be less distinct but should still be recognizable. Fine-grade coins typically display a degree of wear that affects the overall appearance but does not obscure the fundamental design elements. For collectors, finding a Liberty V Nickel in Fine condition offers a tangible connection to the economic and cultural milieu of the late 19th century.

Overall, the 1889 Liberty V Nickel serves as an important artifact from a transformative period in American history. Its design reflects the values and artistic preferences of the time, while its high mintage underscores its role in everyday transactions. The coin’s condition, particularly in Fine grade, provides insight into its history of use and preservation. As a collectible, the 1889 Liberty V Nickel remains a cherished piece for numismatists, offering a glimpse into the evolution of American coinage and the enduring legacy of the Liberty Head design.

• Denomination: 5c
• Year: 1889
• Diameter: N/A
• Mint Mark: N/A
• Thickness: N/A
• Grade: N/A