Price Guide for 1869 Nickel Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $7.00 – $576.00Uncirculated: $86.00 – $11,750.00
-
eBayCirculated: $4.25 – $711.01Uncirculated: $76.09 – $755.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $35.00 – $190.00Uncirculated: $200.00 – $7,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $375.00 – $15,862.50
-
eBayUncirculated: $1,100.00 – $15,000.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $600.00 – $12,500.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $156.00 – $167.00Uncirculated: $2.80 – $19,200.00
-
eBayCirculated: $364.89Uncirculated: $249.98 – $725.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $300.00 – $325.00Uncirculated: $350.00 – $25,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $840.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $61.00 – $109.00Uncirculated: $1,140.00
-
eBayCirculated: $225.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $90.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $89.00 – $252.00Uncirculated: $605.00
-
eBayUncirculated: $1,750.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $125.00 – $275.00Uncirculated: $800.00
Design and Specifications of the 1869 Nickel
The 1869 Shield Nickel is part of the Shield Nickel series, which was first introduced in 1866. This coin played a crucial role in the post-Civil War era, as it helped to replace the silver half dimes that had been hoarded during the war. The Shield design symbolized strength and unity, reflecting the nation’s desire for reconciliation and stability after the conflict.
Weight | 5 grams |
---|---|
Diameter | 20.5 mm |
Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia only) |
Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
Obverse Design | Shield with laurel wreath, designed by James B. Longacre |
Reverse Design | Laurel wreath surrounding the numeral '5', designed by James B. Longacre |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in determining the value of an 1869 Shield Nickel. Due to the soft metal composition and weak strikes common to this series, finding high-grade examples can be challenging. Coins with full shield lines on the obverse and sharp details in the wreath on the reverse command significant premiums.
Luster preservation is another key factor, as many coins from this era exhibit dull surfaces due to environmental damage or cleaning. Specimens with original mint luster are highly sought after by collectors.
Mintage: 16,395,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above due to weak strikes and poor planchet quality
Varieties Errors: Repunched Date (RPD) varieties exist
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Strike quality is a major consideration for 1869 Shield Nickels. Many coins from this year suffer from weak strikes, particularly in the center of the shield and the wreath details. Coins with full strikes can command substantial premiums.
Die varieties, such as the Repunched Date (RPD), can add value for variety collectors. Additionally, coins with attractive natural toning are often more desirable than those with bright, uniform surfaces.
The absence of surface problems like scratches, nicks, or corrosion is crucial for higher-grade examples, as these issues can significantly impact value in a series already challenged by production quality issues.