USA 5 cents Union Shield No Rays 1883
USA, Philadelphia


Rarity
Extremely Rare
Attributes of Coins
Region | USA |
---|---|
Denomination | 5 cents |
Krause number | KM# 97 |
Mintage | 5,419 |
Metal | Copper-Nickel |
diameter | 20.5 mm |
weight | 5 g |
Obverse:

Weapon
Creators:
James Barton Longacre
IN GOD WE TRUST
Reverse:

Star
Creators:
James Barton Longacre
5 CENTS
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Introduction of Coins
This is perhaps the most well made proof in the Shield Nickel series, with full strikes and bright fields being the rule. Only occasionally are the flaws described for some other dates seen with this issue. The certified population of gems is large for this date, though with only a limited number of these qualifying as Cameo proofs. Though this coin type became obsolete early in 1883, as the Mint transitioned to the new Liberty Head type, production of Shield Nickel proofs continued through most of the year. This was done to curb speculation in what would otherwise have been a rare issue. Collectors and speculators only sought them more, setting a record proof mintage for the series. A very minor repunched date variety is known for one proof die, but there is almost no interest by collectors.Read More