The 1889 Liberty Nickel (Buy on eBay) had an original mintage of 15,878,025 pieces struck for circulation at the Philadelphia Mint. Along with the other issues of the series, this coin will carry a slight premium across all grade levels. The coin is relatively obtainable in mint state grades, although caution should be exercised in finding an example with a sharp strike and attractive luster.
The Philadelphia Mint also struck proof coins for collectors. The mintage level was 3,336 pieces. Due to the higher survival rate, these coins are generally easy enough to obtain. Strong premiums are paid for examples which display cameo contrast and are designated as such by one of the top two grading firms PCGS or NGC.
Coin Specifications
- Designer: Charles E. Barber
- Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
- Weight: 5 grams
- Diameter: 21.2 mm
- Edge: Plain
