The rare 1867 Shield Nickel is a coin that collectors dream of owning. Recently, a single coin from this series sold for an impressive $109,250 at auction. Its value comes from its unique design and the “weak” details that make it different from other coins. If you find one of these rare nickels, you could have a valuable piece on your hands!
Let’s dive into what makes this 1867 nickel so valuable and what you should look for if you think you’ve found one. The special details on this coin, like a distinctive weak strike and carefully placed marks, make it a high-demand item among collectors.
1867 Shield Nickel
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1867 (with rays between stars) |
| Grade | PR66 (Proof, near-perfect) |
| Certification | PCGS and CAC |
| Unique Details | Weak center ray, detached leaf in “TRUST” |
| Material | Made of copper and nickel |
| Auction Value | Estimated at $109,250 |
What Makes the 1867 Shield Nickel Valuable?
1. Unique “With Rays” Design
The 1867 Shield Nickel is famous for its “With Rays” design on the back (reverse) side. This design includes rays between the stars, a detail not found on all shield nickels. The design was only used briefly, so these coins are harder to find, adding to their rarity.
2. Weak Details in the Strike
This rare nickel is distinguished by its “weak” design details. Collectors look for features like a faint center ray under the second “T” in “STATES” and slight imperfections that occurred during minting. These weak strikes are hard to reproduce, making the original coins unique.
3. High Grade and Certification
This particular nickel is graded as PR66 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and has a Certified Acceptance Corporation (CAC) certification. These ratings confirm that the coin is in nearly perfect condition, increasing its value even further. Coins with high grades like PR66 are incredibly rare and highly desirable to collectors.
4. Special Details on the Coin
According to coin expert John Dannreuther, the coin’s distinct features include the base of the “1” in the date overlapping a dentil (the small tooth-like marks around the coin’s edge) and a carefully cut “7.” These tiny details make this coin especially unique.
Why the Year 1867 Matters for Coin Collectors
The year 1867 was a turning point for U.S. coins, especially for the shield nickel series. Only a few nickels were made with the “With Rays” design, and even fewer were struck with the weak details that collectors now seek. This coin captures a moment in U.S. minting history and symbolizes a shift in the production process. For collectors, this coin is a rare artifact of the past.
Conclusion
If you come across a nickel from 1867 with the “With Rays” design, check it carefully! These coins have unique features, and if yours has a high grade like PR66, it could be worth a small fortune. Collectors look for tiny details and rare characteristics that make these coins special. By learning about these unique aspects, you’ll understand why this coin is a prized collectible in American history. Owning such a piece is not just about its monetary value; it’s about holding a part of history.
FAQ’s
How can I tell if I have an 1867 “With Rays” Shield Nickel?
Look for rays on the back of the coin, between the stars. These rays make it different from other nickels and are key to identifying this rare version.
What does the grade “PR66” mean?
PR66 is a high grade that shows the coin is in nearly perfect condition. Coins with grades like this are very valuable because they show little to no wear.
Why is the “weak detail” on this coin important?
The weak detail on parts of the design makes this coin unique and hard to find in good condition, which collectors love.