Collection: Type 2, With CENTS

Designed by: Charles E. Barber
Issue Dates: 1883-1913
Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel
Diameter: 21.2 mm
Weight: 5.00 grams (77.16 grains)
Edge: Plain
Business Strike Mintage: 596,535,965
Proof Mintage: 79,923

Following the initial release of the 1883 No CENTS Liberty Nickel, it quickly became evident that the absence of the word CENTS on the reverse left the coin vulnerable to fraudulent misuse. To rectify this, the U.S. Mint modified the reverse design later that same year by adding CENTS beneath the wreath. The motto E PLURIBUS UNUM, previously occupying that space, was reduced in size and repositioned in an arc above the wreath. This updated design remained in use through the final year of the Liberty nickel series in 1912, with continuous coinage beginning in 1883.

Among circulation issues, two dates stand out as Liberty Nickel key dates: the 1885, which is the undisputed rarity of the series, and the 1886, a challenging semi-key. These two issues are in consistently high demand among collectors and represent pivotal acquisitions for those building a complete nickel coin registry set. In 1912, for the first time, Liberty nickels were struck at branch mints—specifically at Denver and San Francisco—adding geographic diversity to the series.

Perhaps the most storied issue is the enigmatic 1913 Liberty Nickel, struck unofficially and known in only five examples. These coins, whose production remains shrouded in mystery, rank among the most coveted rarities in American numismatics and are frequently cited in discussions of elite Liberty Nickel key dates.

For collectors assembling a type set, obtaining a representative example from the more common issues—especially those dated between 1900 and 1912—is relatively straightforward in grades from Good through About Uncirculated. However, Uncirculated pieces are less frequently encountered, and examples with superior luster and fully struck details remain elusive. A known characteristic of the series is incomplete striking, particularly evident on the obverse stars and the lower-left portion of the reverse wreath.

Proof Liberty Nickels were struck annually throughout the series and are typically well-executed, offering sharp detail and aesthetic appeal. While many exhibit light surface flecking from environmental exposure over time, high-quality Proofs remain widely available and continue to serve as excellent examples of the Mint's craftsmanship during this era of nickel coin production.