-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 56698
Checkout
The Certified 1875 Shield Nickel in VF35 condition, graded by PCGS, is a distinguished mid-grade example of one of America’s earliest five-cent pieces made from a copper-nickel alloy. The Shield Nickel series, minted from 1866 to 1883, was the first U.S. five-cent coin to be struck without silver content, replacing the silver half dime. The 1875 issue occupies a notable position within the series, representing the final year that the denomination bore rays between the stars on its reverse in the circulation strike issues. Though produced in substantial numbers, many surviving specimens are plagued with poor strikes or heavy wear. Thus, a problem-free example like this one in Very Fine 35 condition is a desirable and collectible piece for enthusiasts of 19th-century U.S. coinage.
The Shield Nickel’s obverse design was created by James Barton Longacre, then Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. It features a large, ornate shield at center, symbolizing national strength and unity. A cross is mounted above the shield, flanked by branches of olive and arrows—common motifs denoting peace and military readiness. Thirteen stars encircle the top portion of the design, representing the original colonies. The motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” appears in bold letters above the shield, while the date “1875” rests at the bottom. In VF35 condition, most of the intricate lines of the shield remain visible, though minor blending may be noted at the high points of the vertical lines and around the cross and scroll.
The reverse of the coin continues with Longacre’s patriotic themes, displaying a large numeral “5” at the center to denote the denomination in cents. This is surrounded by thirteen six-pointed stars in a circular pattern, with decorative rays filling the spaces between them—a design element that was included from 1866 through part of 1867 and then again in 1875 only in proofs. On regular 1875 circulation strikes, the reverse bears no rays. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “CENTS” form the outer rim legends. In VF35, the central “5” and surrounding stars are sharply outlined, though light wear is expected on the lettering and some peripheral elements.
The 1875 Shield Nickel had a reported mintage of 2,097,000 coins struck for circulation at the Philadelphia Mint. This number places it roughly in the middle of the production spectrum for the series. However, despite the mintage, collector-quality examples in higher circulated grades like VF35 remain relatively scarce. Many Shield Nickels were poorly struck due to the hardness of the copper-nickel alloy and the intricate design, and others circulated heavily. Finding a specimen with good detail and pleasing surfaces, like this PCGS-graded example, provides collectors with an appealing representative of this challenging series.
VF35, or Very Fine 35, denotes a circulated coin that retains strong design detail with moderate, even wear. The PCGS assignment of this grade indicates the coin shows all major elements clearly, with much of the finer detail still visible, though some loss on high points is present. The shield lines on the obverse and the numeral and stars on the reverse remain crisp, while minor smoothness from circulation gives the coin its character and historical charm. Collectors prize such pieces for their balance between affordability and visual appeal, especially when certified by a reputable grading service like PCGS.
PCGS, or Professional Coin Grading Service, is one of the most trusted names in third-party coin certification. Established in 1986, the company offers consistent and respected grading standards, which give collectors and investors confidence in their purchases. A coin certified as VF35 by PCGS is guaranteed to be authentic and accurately graded, encapsulated in a tamper-evident holder with a clear identification label. This offers both protection and provenance, which are vital when acquiring classic coins from the 19th century.
The composition of the 1875 Shield Nickel is 75% copper and 25% nickel, a challenging metal mix for coining that often resulted in incomplete strikes. This alloy was used throughout the entire Shield Nickel series, and its hardness contributed to the frequent weakness in detail, particularly in the center of the coin. Collectors evaluating Shield Nickels often consider strike quality as much as surface preservation. A VF35 example like this one, with visible shield lines, defined date, and readable legends, suggests an above-average strike for the issue, making it especially collectible.
The Shield Nickel is steeped in American post-Civil War symbolism and industrial growth. Introduced in the aftermath of the war, the coin reflected a shift in monetary priorities, moving away from precious metals and toward more practical alloys for everyday circulation. The shield design was intended to invoke unity and federal strength, ideals the nation sought to reinforce during Reconstruction. The 1875 issue came at a time when the country was still dealing with the economic effects of the Panic of 1873, making small denomination coins like the nickel especially important in daily commerce.
The coin’s eye appeal in VF35 condition is typically quite solid. Though not lustrous like Mint State examples, it possesses even wear and good contrast, with no major damage or unsightly distractions. The surfaces are expected to be free from corrosion, harsh cleaning, or pitting, which are common problems for earlier Shield Nickels. Collectors of classic U.S. coinage often appreciate such mid-grade examples because they offer strong detail at a reasonable cost, allowing them to enjoy both the artistry and history of the coin without the premium commanded by uncirculated specimens.
The 1875 Shield Nickel fills an important slot in a complete type or date set, especially for those assembling circulated collections. It is also a popular choice among those collecting one-year type reverses, since 1875 was the last business strike year before the redesign of the nickel into the Liberty Head “V” type in 1883. This transitional significance, along with its intricate design and historical context, makes the 1875 Shield Nickel a compelling addition to any numismatic portfolio. A certified VF35 PCGS example strikes a great balance between preservation, certification quality, and affordability.
In summary, the Certified 1875 Shield Nickel VF35 PCGS is a well-preserved mid-grade example of a historic and symbolic American coin. With its intricate and patriotic design, modest yet notable mintage, and classic 19th-century composition, it stands as a meaningful representation of the post-Civil War coinage era. Certified by PCGS and housed in a protective holder, this piece offers collectors a combination of historical richness, reliable authentication, and strong aesthetic presence within the Shield Nickel series.