Shield Nickels no Rays - A new design easier to strike.


Shield Nickels with no Rays were for the most part very popular. They were produced in high numbers to meet a growing demand in daily commerce.

The obverse of the coin has no obvious changes from the first design started in 1866. It shows a shield with a wreath covering the top of it along with the date below it. Also, it has the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" across the top of the wreath.

The reverse of the coin is essentially the same, with the exception of the
removal of the rays between the stars. This was done to increase metal flow during the minting process. The change resulted in coins with sharper details and an overall better appearance.

Coin Specifications:
Designer: James B. Longacre
Weight: 5.00 grams
Composition 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Diameter: 20.5mm
Edge: Plain



Shield Nickels no Rays to Nickels
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