The US 1871 Nickel coin, designed by James B. Longacre, introduced a new metal composition of 75% copper and 25% nickel, replacing the earlier silver coins. This shift came after the Civil War, during which the U.S. faced economic challenges and a shortage of precious metals. The US 1871 Nickel reflected the nations efforts to stabilize its economy and mint more affordable currency.
The US 1871 Nickel also marked the beginning of a new era in American coinage, with Longacre’s design featuring Liberty on the obverse. This was part of a broader post-war effort to modernize U.S. currency while addressing growing needs for circulating coinage.