Nickels first appeared in 1866. The term refers to the metals used and was meant to differentiate the new coin from silver Half Dimes. First were Shield Nickels 1866-1883, Liberty Nickels followed 1883-1913. Then Buffalo Nickels 1913-1938 with the rarities of the 1918/7, 1921-S and 3 & 3 ½ Legged varieties.
