The 1883 Shield Nickel Proof is a valuable piece of American coin history, representing a unique transition from the Shield design to the Liberty Head nickel. Created by James Barton Longacre, the Shield design was officially replaced by Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber’s Liberty Head “V” Nickel in 1883. This design shift has made the 1883 Shield Nickel Proof a popular collector’s item. In this guide, we’ll look at what makes this coin special, how to value it, and key information on its specifications.
Background: The 1883 Shield Nickel Transition
The Shield Nickel, introduced in 1867, displays a shield on the front, symbolizing national unity. However, in 1883, the U.S. Mint introduced a new Liberty Head Nickel design with a Roman numeral “V” on the back for five cents. This change led to some public confusion, as the numeral could be mistaken for a gold coin’s denomination. To avoid this, the Treasury required a design update that clearly stated “cents.”
Key Features of the 1883 Shield Nickel Proof
The 1883 Shield Nickel Proof is valuable due to its limited mintage and transitional status. The Philadelphia Mint continued to produce these proofs even after switching to the new design, resulting in a limited number of coins. Collectors appreciate this coin not only for its historical significance but also for its potential value, especially when it has unique features like Cameo contrast.
Valuation and Grading of the 1883 Shield Nickel Proof
Collectors should look for 1883 Shield Nickel Proofs with minimal flaws and good eye appeal. Proofs graded PR64 and below often show signs of minor mishandling or cleaning. However, higher grades such as PR65 or PR66 are typically brilliant with fewer imperfections. Some proofs display attractive colorations, with frosty highlights against polished backgrounds, adding value to coins with Cameo or Deep Cameo designations.
The table below provides a quick reference for value ranges based on the coin’s condition and special designations:
| Grade | Features | Approximate Value Range | Rarity |
|---|---|---|---|
| PR64 | Minimal flaws | $200 – $350 | Common |
| PR65-PR66 | Brilliant, few marks | $500 – $750 | Uncommon |
| PR67 | High brilliance | $750 – $1,500 | Scarce |
| PR67 Cameo | Frosty contrast | $1,500 – $5,000 | Rare |
| PR67 Deep Cameo | Deep contrast | $5,000 – $11,000+ | Very Rare |
Recent Auction Trends
In recent years, high-grade 1883 Shield Nickel Proofs have fetched impressive prices at auction. PR67 and higher-grade proofs, especially those with Cameo or Deep Cameo contrast, have seen peak demand. For example, in 2021, a PR67+CAM grade sold for over $11,000, showing the coin’s significant appeal to collectors.
Noteworthy Auction Sales of 1883 Shield Nickel Proofs
| Auction Date | Grade | Sale Price | Collection/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sept 2021 | PR67+CAM | $11,812.50 | Forsythe Collection |
| Dec 2019 | PF68 | $4,080 | Heritage Auctions |
| May 2024 | PR67CAM | $2,400 | Palm Beach Collection |
Coin Specifications
The table below summarizes the key technical specifications for the 1883 Shield Nickel Proof:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year of Issue | 1883 |
| Denomination | Five Cents |
| Mintmark | None (Philadelphia) |
| Estimated Mintage | Approx. 4,000 |
| Composition | 75% Nickel, 25% Copper |
| Weight | 5.0 grams |
| Diameter | 20.5 mm |
| Edge | Plain |
| Designer | James Barton Longacre |
| Quality | Proof |
Conclusion
The 1883 Shield Nickel Proof is a captivating collectible for coin enthusiasts. Its place in the transition from the Shield to the Liberty Head design, combined with its scarcity and aesthetic appeal, make it a prized item for collectors. High-grade specimens with features like Cameo or Deep Cameo contrast can be highly valuable, with prices climbing in recent years. If you’re considering adding this coin to your collection, focus on finding a specimen with good preservation and eye appeal, as these factors greatly impact value. With careful selection, the 1883 Shield Nickel Proof can be a valuable and historic addition to any collection.
FAQ’s
What is the value of the 1883 Shield Nickel Proof?
The value of the 1883 Shield Nickel Proof depends on its grade. Coins in lower grades (PR64) can be worth around $200 to $350, while higher-grade coins (PR67) with Cameo contrast can fetch $1,500 or more.
How many 1883 Shield Nickel Proofs were made?
The official mintage of the 1883 Shield Nickel Proof is 5,419, but experts estimate the actual number to be closer to 4,000 due to some coins being unaccounted for over time.
What makes the 1883 Shield Nickel Proof special?
This coin is historically significant because it represents the transition between the Shield design and the Liberty Head “V” Nickel. Its limited mintage and collectible value make it a prized item for coin collectors.