- Monday-Friday 8-6 CST1-800-276-6508
Subscribe to the JM Bullion newsletter to receive timely market updates and information on product sales and giveaways.
Major Payment Methods Accepted
Download Our Free App Today
© Copyright 2025 JM Bullion. All Rights Reserved. Your Privacy Choices 
The Shield Nickel is one of James B. Longacre’s finest designs for the US Mint. The 1873 Proof Shield Nickel is an exceptional piece for any collector, with just 1,100 coins produced with proof visuals that year. Among Proof Shield Nickels with the Closed 3 element, this coin is one of only three coins to earn a PCGS PR66+ grade, and only six have ever been graded higher. Right now, 1837 Proof Shield Nickels in PR66+ condition are available at JM Bullion.
Coin Highlights:
This 1873 Proof Shield Nickel is in PR66+ condition. A PR66+ coin is at the top of the 66 certification level and boasts above-average eye appeal and luster. There are no more than three or four minor contact marks, with a few possible in the primary focal areas. CAM is a designation that stands for cameo and refers to the frosted devices and date numerals.
James B. Longacre, the 4th Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, created the Shield Nickel design. The coin was the first nickel in American history to use a copper-nickel alloy. The coins feature 75% copper and 25% nickel.
On the obverse of 1873 Proof Shield Nickels, you will find a depiction of the US national shield. This ornate shield includes a solid patch across the top third and vertical lines through the bottom two-thirds of the shield. It is flanked along the top by a wreath. As a Closed 3 specimen, you’ll notice that the serifs on the numeral 3 nearly touch, resulting in the number appearing similar to an 8.
The reverse side of 1873 Proof Shield Nickel Coins comes with a simple design. The nation of issue is engraved along the top of the design field. The number 5 is at the center of the field with alternating stars and sunrays surrounding the face value.
If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. JM Bullion customer service is available at 800-276-6508, online using our web chat, and via our email address.
Ships Within 1 Business Day of Cleared Payment
Tracking and insurance included on all orders
The Shield Nickel is one of James B. Longacre’s finest designs for the US Mint. The 1873 Proof Shield Nickel is an exceptional piece for any collector, with just 1,100 coins produced with proof visuals that year. Among Proof Shield Nickels with the Closed 3 element, this coin is one of only three coins to earn a PCGS PR66+ grade, and only six have ever been graded higher. Right now, 1837 Proof Shield Nickels in PR66+ condition are available at JM Bullion.
Coin Highlights:
This 1873 Proof Shield Nickel is in PR66+ condition. A PR66+ coin is at the top of the 66 certification level and boasts above-average eye appeal and luster. There are no more than three or four minor contact marks, with a few possible in the primary focal areas. CAM is a designation that stands for cameo and refers to the frosted devices and date numerals.
James B. Longacre, the 4th Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, created the Shield Nickel design. The coin was the first nickel in American history to use a copper-nickel alloy. The coins feature 75% copper and 25% nickel.
On the obverse of 1873 Proof Shield Nickels, you will find a depiction of the US national shield. This ornate shield includes a solid patch across the top third and vertical lines through the bottom two-thirds of the shield. It is flanked along the top by a wreath. As a Closed 3 specimen, you’ll notice that the serifs on the numeral 3 nearly touch, resulting in the number appearing similar to an 8.
The reverse side of 1873 Proof Shield Nickel Coins comes with a simple design. The nation of issue is engraved along the top of the design field. The number 5 is at the center of the field with alternating stars and sunrays surrounding the face value.
If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. JM Bullion customer service is available at 800-276-6508, online using our web chat, and via our email address.
