Whitman Expo
1870 Nickel MS Values
Details
This date is the first from the Shield Nickel Series to boast a mintage under 8-figures making it scarcer than the1860’s issues yet still very common. Easily accessible in all grades until the gem level at which point the gems are slightly scarce. This issue is known to have die cracks and stars that appear repunched but are not because the initial strikes were just so strong.
Obverse: A shield flanked on the left and right by leaves topped with a cross with arrows positioned behind at the bottom so the arrow heads and shanks protrude at the sides. The motto IN GOD WE TRUST appears at the top periphery with the date positioned at the bottom center.
Reverse: A large numeral 5 surrounded by 13 stars centered in the design with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA * CENTS around the periphery.
Mint & Coinage Details
Mint Location:
Philadelphia
Mintage:
4,806,000
Coinage Type:
Shield nickel
Coinage Years:
1867-1883
Composition:
75% copper; 25% nickel
Physical Characteristics
Weight:
5 gr
Weight:
0.1608 oz
Strike Type:
Business
Diameter:
20.5 mm
Coin Shape:
Round
Design Details
Designer:
James B. Longacre
Obverse Lettering:
IN GOD WE TRUST, 1870
Obverse Designer:
James B. Longacre
Reverse Lettering:
5, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, CENTS
Reverse Designer:
James B. Longacre
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