B

Step 1: We begin by recalling that the potential V of a charged conductor is uniform across its surface.
Step 2: The initial potential of the sphere is given as V_1. When connected to the uncharged conducting shell, charge will redistribute until the potential on both the sphere and the shell are equal.
Step 3: Since the shell is conducting and initially uncharged, it will acquire the same potential as the sphere. Therefore, the final potential V_s of the shell will be equal to the initial potential of the sphere V_1.
Step 4: Hence, after connection, the potential of the conducting shell will be:
V_s = V_1.
Therefore, the potential acquired by the spherical shell is V_1.