5 Cents "Shield Nickel"
United States · 1866–1867 · Base Metal
Specifications
| Years | 1866–1867 |
| Denomination | 5 Cents |
| Composition | Copper-nickel (.750 Cu, .250 Ni) |
| Gross weight | 5 g |
| Fineness | 75.0% base metal |
| Diameter | 20.5 mm |
| Thickness | 1.95 mm |
| Edge | Plain |
| Shape | Round |
| Designer | James Barton Longacre |
| Type | Standard circulation coins |
Catalog data via Numista, where photos and mintage details are available.
Design
Obverse
Draped garland above shield
Reverse
Value within center of 13 rays between 13 stars
About this coin’s value
This coin is composed of copper-nickel (.750 cu, .250 ni) and weighs 5 g. It carries no precious-metal melt value, so its worth is numismatic — driven by date, mint mark, grade and demand. For copper-era cents, the metal itself can exceed face value — see the copper penny calculator and our copper penny guide.
More 5 Cents coins
- 5 Cents - Civil WarToken - G.R. Meyer (Chicago, Illinois)
- 5 Cents "1792 Half Disme" (Pattern; copper)1792
- 5 Cents "1792 Half Disme" (Pattern; silver)1792
- 5 Cents "Half Disme"1792
- 5 Cents "1794 Half Dime" (Pattern)1794
- 5 Cents "Flowing Hair Half Dime"1794–1795
- ½ Dime "Draped Bust Half Dime" (small eagle)1796–1797
- ½ Dime "Draped Bust Half Dime" (Heraldic eagle)1800–1805
Frequently asked questions
Is the 5 Cents "Shield Nickel" made of silver or gold?
No — the 5 Cents "Shield Nickel" is copper-nickel (.750 cu, .250 ni), so it carries no precious-metal melt value. Its worth is numismatic: driven by date, mint mark, grade and collector demand.
What years was the 5 Cents "Shield Nickel" minted?
The 5 Cents "Shield Nickel" was issued 1866–1867.
Who designed the 5 Cents "Shield Nickel"?
The 5 Cents "Shield Nickel" was designed by James Barton Longacre.
How big is a 5 Cents "Shield Nickel"?
It weighs 5 g and measures 20.5 mm across and 1.95 mm thick (copper-nickel (.750 cu, .250 ni)).
Educational reference, not an offer to buy or sell. Specifications are catalog data and may vary by variety; verify before any transaction.