1866 Shield Nickel. Rays. MS-66 (PCGS).Lustrous satin surfaces are exceptionally well preserved for a survivor of this important type issue in the Shield nickel series. Lightly toned in iridescent champagne-apricot that provides further appeal. The historically significant 1866 is the fist nickel five-cent piece produced by the United States Mint, and it is also popular with collectors as one of only two circulation strikes of the Shield, Rays design type. Premium Gems such as this are scarce, a fact that speaks volumes about the fleeting nature of this offering for the high grade type collector.