1886 V Nickel

The 1886 V Nickel had a total mintage of just over 3.3 million coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint. The Philadelphia Mint was known for its excellent craftsmanship and it created some truly spectacular Liberty Head Nickels. The 1886 Liberty Head Nickel is considered one of the third most popular and valuable coins within the series, right behind the 1885 V Nickel and the 1912-S V Nickel. Although it is the third most sought after, it is relatively common to find Mint State examples compared to the difficulty of finding an 1885 V Nickel. 

 

History of the 1886 Liberty Head “V” Nickel

The 1886 Liberty Head “V” Nickel can be found in some of the higher grades, but it requires careful searching and a bit of luck. Strike quality can sometimes be a problem with the 1886 V Nickel with the coin showing weakness on the ear of corn on the lower left of the reverse of the coin, and the radial line on some of the stars is also weak. Cherrypicking is advised where possible. Charles E. Barber is responsible for the designs of this popular coin, as well as the designs of the Barber Dime, Quarter, and Half Dollar (also known as the Liberty Head coins). 

 

1886 V Nickel Value

The 1886 V Nickel value reaches upwards of around $65,000 for the highest grades of the coin documented and sold. It is a valuable coin that would bring value to a collection, as this is a popular key date among the series. The 1886 Liberty Head Nickel is a beautiful coin that is worth the effort to find well-struck and would make an excellent addition to any Liberty Head Nickel series collection. 

 

Type of coin: Nickel

Year: 1886 V Nickel

V Nickel Mint Mark: Philadelphia

Total mintage: 3,326,000

Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel

Face value: Five Cents

Weight: 5.00 grams

Edge: Plain

Designer: Charles E. Barber

Diameter: 21.20 millimeters