The Liberty Head nickel, sometimes referred to as the "V" nickel because of its reverse design, was struck for circulation from 1883 until 1912.  There were at least five pieces secretly struck that were dated 1913. The obverse features a left-facing image of the goddess of Liberty. Striking of the new coins began on January 30, 1883, and the Mint placed the first pieces in circulation on February 1.

The original design did not have the word "cent" on the reverse of the coin; however, due to some people having them gold plated and trying to pass them off as 5 dollar gold coins, they later added the word "cent" in 1883.

Minting officially ceased in 1912 and made way for the popular "Buffalo Nickel".