The 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel holds a unique place in numismatic history due to its exceptionally low mintage and historical significance. With only 238,000 pieces struck, it boasts the lowest circulation mintage of the entire Liberty Head Nickel series. This mintage is even lower than that of any circulation strike Buffalo or Jefferson Nickel, making it the fourth-lowest mintage for all circulating nickels, surpassed only by the 1879, 1880, and 1881 Shield Nickels.
Adding to its significance, the 1912-S was the first nickel ever produced at the San Francisco Mint. Along with the 1912-D, it marked the first time nickels were struck at a branch mint outside of Philadelphia. The production of the 1912-S nickel began on December 24, 1912, cementing its place in U.S. minting history.
Design Details of 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel
Obverse:
The obverse of the 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel features a left-facing profile of Liberty, her hair elegantly swept back and tied in a bun, with a few loose curls cascading down the back of her neck.
She wears a coronet inscribed with the word “LIBERTY,” adorned with wheat and cotton clusters at its base. Surrounding Liberty is a circle of 13 six-pointed stars inside the denticulated rim, with the date “1912” prominently displayed at the bottom.
Reverse:
On the reverse, a large Roman numeral “V” dominates the center, surrounded by a small wreath of cotton and corn, tied together at the bottom with a ribbon. The legend “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” encircles the top and sides, while the denomination “CENTS” is placed at the bottom, flanked by two dots.
Above the wreath is the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” The “S” mintmark of the San Francisco Mint is positioned below the dot to the left of “CENTS.”
Edge:
The edge of the 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel is plain, without any reeding or lettering.
Designer: Charles E. Barber
Charles Edward Barber, the designer of the Liberty Head Nickel, was born in London in 1840. Following in the footsteps of his father, William Barber, the fifth Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, Charles became the Mint’s sixth Chief Engraver in 1879 after his father’s death.
Barber is best known for his “Barber coinage,” which includes the dime, quarter, and half dollar. His design of the Liberty Head “V” Nickel is another notable contribution, as is his often-discussed rivalry with fellow engraver George T. Morgan.
Coin Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year of Issue | 1912 |
| Denomination | Five Cents (USD) |
| Mintmark | S (San Francisco) |
| Mintage | 238,000 |
| Alloy | .750 Copper, .250 Nickel |
| Weight | 5.0 g |
| Diameter | 21.2 mm |
| Edge | Plain |
| Obverse Designer | Charles E. Barber |
| Reverse Designer | Charles E. Barber |
| Quality | Business Strike |
Conclusion
The 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel is a coin of considerable historical importance and rarity. Its status as the first nickel minted at the San Francisco Mint, combined with its exceptionally low mintage, makes it a highly sought-after piece among collectors.
The coin’s intricate design by Charles E. Barber and its place in numismatic history ensure that it remains a valuable and treasured item in any collection.
FAQ
Why is the 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel significant?
The 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel is significant for its low mintage of just 238,000 pieces and its status as the first nickel produced at the San Francisco Mint.
What is the rarity of the 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel?
With a mintage lower than any circulation strike Buffalo or Jefferson Nickel, the 1912-S is one of the rarest nickels, making it highly valuable to collectors.
Who designed the 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel?
The coin was designed by Charles E. Barber, the sixth Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, known for his “Barber coinage.”
What are the design features of the 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel?
The obverse features a left-facing profile of Liberty with a coronet inscribed with “LIBERTY,” while the reverse showcases a large Roman numeral “V” surrounded by a wreath and the legend “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”
Where is the mintmark located on the 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel?
The “S” mintmark, indicating the San Francisco Mint, is located below the dot to the left of “CENTS” on the reverse.
Reference:
Information compiled from numismatic sources and historical records.
