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The U.S. Shield Nickel of 1868 holds a special place in American numismatic history, offering a fascinating glimpse into the post-Civil War era and the challenges faced by the United States Mint. Following the conclusion of the American Civil War in 1865, the United States Mint grappled with the need to produce reliable coinage. To address these challenges, Chief Engraver James B. Longacre designed the Shield Nickel series, which included the 1868 issue. This coin represents the Mint's efforts to create a practical and durable coin for everyday use.
The obverse of the 1868 Shield Nickel features a central shield motif, symbolizing the strength and unity of the nation. Encircling the shield are thirteen stars, representing the original thirteen states of the Union. This design serves as a reminder of the historical significance of the coin, emphasizing the idea of a united nation following the Civil War.
Notably, the 1868 Shield Nickel stands out from its 1866 predecessor, which featured rays between the stars on the obverse. The removal of rays in 1867 added to the coin's unique appeal and collector interest, marking a transitional period in American coin design.
Turning our attention to the reverse side of the coin, we find a wreath composed of a laurel branch and an oak branch. The laurel branch symbolizes victory and honor, while the oak branch represents strength and endurance. Within the wreath, the denomination "5 CENTS" is inscribed in large, bold letters, leaving no room for ambiguity regarding the coin's value. Additionally, the year of issue, "1868," is positioned at the bottom, marking the coin's place in history.
The denomination of five cents was crucial for daily commerce during the mid-19th century. The Shield Nickel aimed to address the issues faced by smaller denomination coins, providing a durable and practical solution for everyday transactions.
Regarding mintage figures, the 1868 Shield Nickel had a total mintage of 28,817,000 coins. This high mintage reflects the demand for a reliable coinage system to meet the needs of a growing nation and a recovering post-war economy. While this mintage figure may seem substantial, it is important to consider the coin's widespread use in everyday transactions.
Now, let's discuss the coin's condition. The 1868 Shield Nickel in Good (G) grade exhibits significant wear, as expected for a coin that has seen extensive circulation. The design elements, including the central shield and wreath, have experienced wear and flattening. However, despite the wear, the inscriptions and major design features remain distinguishable, preserving the historical significance of the coin.
In conclusion, the U.S. Shield Nickel of 1868 is a remarkable piece of American numismatic history. Designed during a transitional period following the Civil War, this coin features a unique central shield motif on the obverse, encircled by thirteen stars, without the rays present on the 1866 issue. On the reverse, a laurel and oak wreath surround the denomination "5 CENTS," emphasizing the coin's value. With a substantial mintage reflecting the needs of a growing nation and a Good condition that bears the marks of its historical use, the 1868 Shield Nickel remains a prized collectible and a testament to the resilience of the United States Mint during a challenging era.