The US 1887 Nickel, designed by Charles E. Barber, featured a depiction of Liberty. Struck in 75% copper and 25% nickel, it represented the economic transition of the United States post-Reconstruction. The US 1887 Nickel symbolized a growing industrial economy, with nickel becoming more integral to American coinage.
Politically, the US 1887 Nickel was minted during a period of economic expansion and the debate over currency standards. Barber’s design captured a sense of national identity, while the nickel composition reflected the country’s increasing reliance on non-precious metals for currency during an era of industrialization. The US 1887 Nickel remained a vital part of everyday transactions.