The US 1868 Nickel coin, minted in nickel, marked the first year the U.S. government began using nickel as a primary metal for coins. The coin’s design, featuring a shield and stars, symbolized unity and recovery following the Civil War. The nickel composition reflected a shift towards more durable and cost-effective materials for coinage.
Politically, the 1868 Nickel was produced during the Reconstruction era under President Andrew Johnson. The coin’s design and metal choice represented the nation’s efforts to rebuild and modernize its economy. The 1868 Nickel served as a key part of daily transactions during a time of political and economic transition.