The US 1877 Nickel coin, designed by Joseph Wharton, was minted during a time of economic recovery following the Panic of 1873. The 1877 Nickel was made of 75% copper and 25% nickel, symbolizing the increasing use of nickel in U.S. coinage. Wharton’s design, featuring a shield and a large "V" for five, was part of the push to create durable, low-cost coins after the silver shortage.
Politically, the 1877 Nickel represented a shift in U.S. currency, marking the U.S. government’s effort to adapt to economic needs. The coin’s nickel composition helped stabilize currency production during a period of significant inflation and coin shortages.