Price Guide for 1860 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: $34.00 – $504.00Uncirculated: $2.60 – $18,600.00
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eBayCirculated: $31.00 – $349.99Uncirculated: $105.10 – $2,475.90
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $65.00 – $375.00Uncirculated: $400.00 – $20,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,320.00Uncirculated: $7.00 – $21,000.00
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eBayUncirculated: $449.00 – $1,210.78
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $800.00 – $30,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,410.00 – $9,987.50
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,500.00 – $12,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1860 Three Cents
The 1860 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 to facilitate the purchase of postage stamps and to provide a convenient denomination for small transactions.
The year 1860 saw the continuation of the Type II design, which featured modifications to improve striking quality and durability. This design was used from 1854 to 1858, making the 1860 issue part of the final years of the Type II series.
| Weight | 0.75 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 14 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
| Composition | 75% silver, 25% copper |
| Obverse Design | Liberty head wearing a coronet, designed by James B. Longacre |
| Reverse Design | Roman numeral III within an ornate C, designed by James B. Longacre |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of the 1860 Three Cent Silver coin significantly impacts its value and desirability among collectors. Due to its small size and often weak strikes, finding high-grade examples can be challenging.
Key factors affecting condition include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are highly prized.
2. Luster: Original mint luster adds significant value.
3. Surface preservation: Coins free from marks, scratches, and wear are more valuable.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance value for some collectors.
Mintage: 286,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above due to weak strikes and small size
Varieties Errors: None widely recognized
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Additional factors influencing the 1860 Three Cent Silver’s value include:
1. Historical significance: As a pre-Civil War issue, it holds appeal for history enthusiasts.
2. Relative scarcity: Lower mintage compared to some other years in the series.
3. Type collection demand: Essential for collectors assembling type sets of 19th-century coinage.
4. Preservation challenges: The coin’s small size made it prone to loss and damage, increasing the value of well-preserved examples.
