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1905 Proof

Nickels · Liberty Head Nickels (V) · 1883–1912
Key date Proof
Weight5 g
Diameter21.2 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeProof
Mintage 2,152
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition75% Copper, 25% Nickel
DesignerCharles E. Barber
Collector's Key IDCK-1236

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About this coinHistory

Proof production edged up to 2,152 coins in 1905, a modest increase from 1904 and continuing the gradual upward trend in proof output. Proof set sales were slowly rebuilding from the mid-1890s lows, though they remained well below peak levels of the 1870s and 1880s. The 1905 is a typical proof date for the decade and commands no unusual premiums.

Strike quality is strong for the year. The coin shows typical Philadelphia proof characteristics: mirror fields, frosted devices, and crisp detail on well-preserved examples. Cameo pieces are available, and Deep Cameo examples carry modest premiums over non-Cameo specimens of the same grade.

For collectors building complete Liberty Head proof sets, the 1905 is a routine mid-decade entry. The coin presents no particular collector challenges and is among the more accessible proof Liberty Head nickels from the early twentieth century.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
PR-63 Proof (PR)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How many 1905 Proof Liberty Head Nickels (V) were minted?
2,152 were struck.
What is a 1905 Proof Liberty Head Nickel (V) made of?
75% Copper, 25% Nickel, weighing 5 g.
What is the melt value of a 1905 Proof Liberty Head Nickel (V)?
Its melt value is its metal content multiplied by the current spot price. See our melt calculator on the metals pages for a live figure.
Is the 1905 Proof Liberty Head Nickel (V) a key date?
Yes — the 1905 Proof Liberty Head Nickel (V) is considered a key date in the Liberty Head Nickels (V) series and commands a strong premium.