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1866 Shield nickel value guide -- the first-year Rays design, mintage, and grade-by-grade prices.
First-year design; the Rays (Type 1) reverse was struck in 1866 and part of 1867, then dropped due to die-clashing and striking problems.
All Shield nickels were struck at Philadelphia only -- no branch mint ever produced this denomination.
Live listings matching the 1866 With Rays Shield Nickel
Other dates and varieties in this series
Condition drives price more than any other factor on a coin like this — two examples of the same date can be worth very different amounts depending on wear and authentication.
The value table above is organized by grade for a reason — a coin's condition, not just its date, sets where it lands on that range. If you're not sure how to grade, a seller's photos and description should call it out.
A professionally graded (PCGS/NGC) example carries more certainty than a raw coin, and usually a small premium for it. Both are fine to buy — just factor grading into the price you're comparing.
Prices vary between individual sellers here, not one retailer's price list. Sort by price, check the seller's Metal Points and order history, and message the seller if photos don't show enough detail to grade confidently.
About the 1866 With Rays Shield Nickel
Value depends heavily on condition. A well-worn example brings closer to $43, while an uncirculated one can reach $612 or more.
First-year design; the Rays (Type 1) reverse was struck in 1866 and part of 1867, then dropped due to die-clashing and striking problems.
For anything you believe is a key date or an error, professional grading protects both buyer and seller by settling condition and authenticity before money changes hands.
List it free on PeerMetals — flat 2.75% seller fee, zero listing fees, 1–3 day payouts.
