-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 23584
Checkout
The 1872 Shield Nickel in Very Good condition is a historically resonant and visually enduring coin from the post-Civil War era, offering insight into both numismatic innovation and the expanding American economy. First issued in 1866, the Shield Nickel was the first five-cent coin struck from a copper-nickel alloy rather than silver, a critical shift following the financial turmoil of the Civil War. The series replaced the silver half dime and provided a more durable, cost-effective coin that could better serve everyday commerce. The 1872 issue sits within the later portion of the Shield Nickel’s production run, bridging the initial postwar years and the financial upheavals that would soon follow in the Panic of 1873. Its enduring presence, even in moderately worn grades like Very Good, reflects its widespread use and continued appeal among collectors seeking a piece of 19th-century Americana.
The obverse of the Shield Nickel was designed by James Barton Longacre, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, and is one of the most symbolically rich designs of its time. The central motif is a large Union shield, representing the strength and unity of the postwar nation. It is topped with a cross and surrounded by ornate scrollwork and flanked by olive branches, traditional symbols of peace. Above this emblem is the national motto “IN GOD WE TRUST,” arched along the top edge of the coin. In Very Good condition, the shield is fully visible, though much of the inner vertical and horizontal line detailing may be faint or partially worn. The motto is still legible, though some letters may exhibit softening. The scrollwork and olive branches are typically visible in outline but lack finer definition, with the rim showing moderate wear and merging slightly into the field.
The reverse design complements the obverse with a layout that emphasizes clarity and purpose. A large numeral “5” dominates the center of the reverse, identifying the denomination in cents. Surrounding the numeral are thirteen six-pointed stars, symbolizing the original thirteen colonies. Encircling the stars are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “CENTS.” The design was simplified in 1867 after the removal of the rays that had originally appeared between the stars on the reverse in 1866, making the coins easier to strike and less prone to die breakage. In Very Good condition, the central “5” remains bold, and most stars are still distinguishable, though some may appear flat or faint. The lettering is legible, although the edges of some letters may be softened. The rim shows signs of wear but is still mostly intact.
The 1872 Shield Nickel was produced exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the only U.S. facility to strike Shield Nickels throughout the series' lifespan. That year, the Mint struck 6,038,000 of these coins, reflecting both the steady demand for small change in a rapidly growing economy and the practical success of the copper-nickel alloy for low-denomination coinage. Despite the relatively high mintage, many of these coins saw extensive circulation, and few were saved in pristine condition at the time. As a result, most surviving examples are found in circulated grades, and the Very Good grade represents a desirable midpoint for collectors—affordable, clearly identifiable, and rich with historical character.
The 1870s marked a period of dramatic transformation in the United States. The economy was industrializing, railroads were spreading across the continent, and cities were growing. The Shield Nickel was a crucial player in the day-to-day financial system of this time, frequently exchanged in shops, post offices, and railway depots. Its value as a hard-wearing, non-precious coin made it accessible to nearly everyone. Its presence in everyday life, paired with its distinctive design, made it one of the most recognizable coins of the period. Coins like the 1872 issue, worn but intact, serve as artifacts of this dynamic era and help convey the narrative of America’s commercial and cultural expansion during Reconstruction and beyond.
The coin’s 75% copper and 25% nickel composition was selected for its resistance to wear and its ability to withstand frequent handling, although this same hardness created production challenges. The Shield Nickel is known for its often-weak strikes, especially on the obverse where intricate lines and elements could fail to come through cleanly. Even well-struck examples showed areas of softness, particularly in the vertical lines of the shield or in the scroll and leaf areas. In Very Good condition, these vulnerable spots are usually worn smooth, but the broader outlines of the design remain visible and pleasing to the eye. Despite the technical imperfections of the series, the Shield Nickel remains an icon of mid-19th century U.S. minting and artistry.
A Very Good example of the 1872 Shield Nickel typically exhibits moderate wear across both faces, with surface smoothness and loss of fine detail being the most obvious characteristics. On the obverse, the shield outline is bold and the basic structure is easily recognized, though inner lines may be mostly worn away. The cross above the shield is faint but visible, and the surrounding scroll and foliage designs appear as flattened outlines. The motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” is legible, though not sharp. On the reverse, the numeral “5” retains strong visibility, and most of the stars remain evident, though flattened. The inscriptions are clear but lightly worn. The rims may be weak in areas but are mostly distinguishable. Toning may vary from light silver-gray to deeper charcoal or brown, depending on storage and circulation conditions over time.
From a numismatic standpoint, the 1872 Shield Nickel offers a balance between collectibility and accessibility. It is a necessary date for those assembling a complete Shield Nickel set and is often included in 19th-century type sets due to its classic design and historical context. While not among the rarest dates in the series, the 1872 issue is still highly regarded, particularly in grades where the design remains easily readable without the premium associated with higher-grade coins. Very Good condition allows collectors to enjoy the coin’s historical significance and original details at a moderate price point, making it a practical and rewarding acquisition for hobbyists of all levels.
The appeal of circulated Shield Nickels such as the 1872 in Very Good condition extends beyond numismatics to those interested in American history. These coins were part of daily life during a transformative period and would have been familiar to shopkeepers, laborers, and travelers alike. Holding such a piece offers a tangible connection to a century long past—a time of great technological advancement and national rebuilding. For collectors who appreciate coins that show signs of use and history, rather than pristine preservation, the 1872 Shield Nickel is a timeless example of a coin that served its purpose with quiet dignity and durability.
The 1872 Shield Nickel in Very Good condition remains a meaningful and collectible piece of America’s numismatic heritage. Its timeworn surfaces reflect honest use and help tell the story of a nation that was evolving, rebuilding, and modernizing. Though softened by circulation, the coin still retains the integrity of Longacre’s bold and purposeful design, offering collectors an affordable and satisfying example of a coin that carried both symbolic and economic weight in its time. As part of the broader narrative of 19th-century coinage, commerce, and culture, this piece stands as a worthy representation of American resilience and innovation.