The 1867 Rays Shield Nickel is one of America’s unique historical coins, notable for its design, rarity, and value. This coin stands out due to a special minting error, called a “shattered obverse die,” where cracks appear across the front side. Collectors love this coin for its unique features and its well-preserved state, which can boost its value to nearly $4,000. Here’s everything you need to know about what makes this coin special and how to identify if you have one worth collecting.
What Makes the 1867 Rays Shield Nickel Unique?
The 1867 Rays Shield Nickel has distinctive features that add to its appeal:
- Die Cracks on the Obverse (Front)
A shattered die caused cracks on the coin’s front side, making it a rare error. This error doesn’t affect the coin’s design sharpness, which means it still has well-defined features despite the cracks. - Autumn-Gold Toning
The coin’s “autumn-gold” tone gives it a beautiful, aged look, making it even more appealing to collectors. This natural toning adds charm and can increase the coin’s value. - CAC Approval
Coins with the CAC (Certified Acceptance Corporation) green label are highly valued because they meet strict quality standards. Only a few 1867 Rays Shield Nickels have this endorsement, making them even more desirable. - Limited Quantity in High Grades
Only 52 examples of this coin are graded MS65, a high mint state grade, with a handful graded even finer. This scarcity makes these coins very appealing to collectors.
Why Collectors Value the 1867 Rays Shield Nickel
The 1867 Rays Shield Nickel weighs 5 grams and is made of 75% copper and 25% nickel, an alloy that helps it resist wear. This durability means that some coins have stayed in excellent condition for over 150 years. Because it was only minted for a short time and contains a rare die error, the 1867 Rays Shield Nickel has become one of the top collectible nickels from the 19th century. Its rarity, high grade, and CAC certification make it a must-have for serious collectors.
Table: Key Facts About the 1867 Rays Shield Nickel
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1867 |
| Obverse Design | Shield with Rays |
| Metal Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Weight | 5.00 grams |
| Mint Error | Shattered Obverse Die |
| Grade | Commonly found in MS65; rare in higher grades |
| Value | Up to $3,960 (depending on grade and condition) |
Conclusion
The 1867 Rays Shield Nickel is a unique piece of American history, cherished by collectors for its rare die error and appealing design. Even with cracks on the front, these coins have held up remarkably well and remain valuable due to their beauty, quality, and scarcity. Only a few nickels like this exist in high grades with CAC certification, making it one of the most sought-after coins from the 19th century. If you happen to have an 1867 Rays Shield Nickel, especially one with autumn-gold toning and a CAC label, it could be worth as much as $3,960—or possibly even more.
FAQ’s
What is a “shattered die,” and why does it matter?
A shattered die is a minting error where the die used to stamp the coin’s design cracks, creating unique lines on the coin’s surface. This makes the coin rare and valuable.
Why is CAC certification important?
CAC certification shows that the coin meets high quality standards. Collectors often pay more for CAC-approved coins because they trust its quality and authenticity.
How can I identify an 1867 Rays Shield Nickel?
Look for the shield design on the front and check for cracks. Also, examine the coin’s toning and see if it has CAC certification, which increases its value.