Coin Identifier
Liberty Head Nickel (V-Nickel)
5 Cents ($0.05)

Liberty Head Nickel (V-Nickel)

United States of America · 1903

The obverse features a left-facing profile of Lady Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed 'LIBERTY', surrounded by thirteen stars and the date '1903' at the bottom. The coin shows significant circulation wear.

Country
United States of America
Year
1903
Denomination
5 Cents ($0.05)
Metal
75% Copper, 25% Nickel

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Overview

The obverse features a left-facing profile of Lady Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed 'LIBERTY', surrounded by thirteen stars and the date '1903' at the bottom. The coin shows significant circulation wear.

Historical significance

Designed by Charles E. Barber, the Liberty Head nickel was produced from 1883 to 1912. It is famously known for the 'No Cents' controversy of its first year, where criminals gold-plated the coins to pass them off as five-dollar gold pieces. By 1903, the design was well-established as a staple of American commerce.

Estimated value

$1.00 - $5.00

Care & preservation

Do not clean or polish the coin, as this can severely decrease its numismatic value by damaging the surface patina. Store in a PVC-free plastic flip or a dry, cool environment to prevent further corrosion or oxidation.