Price Guide for 1858 Three Cents Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $36.00 – $504.00Uncirculated: $3.00 – $43,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $19.00 – $390.00Uncirculated: $138.27 – $3,550.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $65.00 – $500.00Uncirculated: $550.00 – $75,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2,875.00Uncirculated: $5.25 – $57,500.00
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eBayUncirculated: $2,500.00 – $9,795.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2,000.00 – $65,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $4,025.00 – $28,200.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4,000.00 – $70,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1858 Three Cents
The 1858 Three Cent Silver coin, also known as a ‘trime’, was part of the silver three-cent piece series minted from 1851 to 1873. This coin was introduced in response to the decrease in postage rates from five cents to three cents, making it convenient for purchasing stamps.
By 1858, the coin’s popularity had begun to wane due to the introduction of the larger nickel three-cent piece in 1865 and the increasing scarcity of silver coins during this period leading up to the Civil War.
| Weight | 0.80 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 14 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
| Composition | 75% silver, 25% copper |
| Obverse Design | Liberty head facing left, wearing a coronet inscribed with 'LIBERTY', designed by James B. Longacre |
| Reverse Design | Roman numeral III within an ornate C-shaped design, surrounded by a wreath, designed by James B. Longacre |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in determining the value of an 1858 Three Cent Silver piece. Due to its small size and intricate design, high-grade examples are particularly scarce. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) command significant premiums.
Key factors affecting condition include:
– Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full detail are highly desirable.
– Luster: Original mint luster adds considerable value.
– Surface preservation: Minimal contact marks or scratches are crucial for higher grades.
– Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance value for some collectors.
Mintage: 1,604,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above due to the coin's small size and delicate design
Varieties Errors: None significant for this year
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Several factors can influence the value of an 1858 Three Cent Silver piece beyond its condition:
1. Historical significance: As a pre-Civil War issue, it appeals to historians and period collectors.
2. Type set inclusion: Essential for type set collections, increasing overall demand.
3. Originality: Coins with original surfaces, free from cleaning or alteration, are highly prized.
4. Strike characteristics: Well-centered strikes with full design details command premiums.
5. Provenance: Coins with a documented history of ownership in notable collections can see increased value.
