Price Guide for 1861 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.
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $28.00 – $480.00Uncirculated: $2.50 – $21,600.00
-
eBayCirculated: $22.50 – $399.90Uncirculated: $79.78 – $3,450.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $65.00 – $375.00Uncirculated: $400.00 – $50,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $276.00Uncirculated: $3.15 – $16,100.00
-
eBayUncirculated: $666.00 – $3,671.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $650.00 – $750.00Uncirculated: $800.00 – $22,500.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $374.00 – $26,400.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,100.00 – $30,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1861 Three Cents
The 1861 Three Cent Silver coin, also known as a trime, was minted during a pivotal year in American history, marking the beginning of the Civil War. This small silver coin was introduced in 1851 to facilitate the purchase of postage stamps and remained in production until 1873. The 1861 issue represents one of the last years of widespread circulation for this denomination, as the Civil War would soon lead to widespread hoarding of silver coins.
| Weight | 0.75 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 14 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
| Composition | 75% silver, 25% copper |
| Obverse Design | Liberty head facing right, wearing a coronet inscribed with 'LIBERTY', designed by James B. Longacre |
| Reverse Design | Roman numeral III within an ornate C-shaped design, designed by James B. Longacre |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in determining the value of 1861 Three Cent Silver coins. Due to their small size and delicate design, high-grade specimens are particularly scarce. Coins in Mint State condition with full luster and minimal contact marks command significant premiums.
Strike quality is essential, as many examples from this era suffer from weak strikes, particularly on the reverse. Coins with sharp details and full rims are highly desirable. The presence of original toning can also enhance value, with collectors favoring coins displaying attractive, natural color.
Mintage: 497,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above due to small size and delicate design
Varieties Errors: None widely recognized
Market Demand: Moderate, with increased interest from Civil War era collectors
Historical significance adds to the appeal of the 1861 Three Cent Silver. As a Civil War era coin, it attracts both coin collectors and Civil War memorabilia enthusiasts. The lower mintage compared to some other years makes this date more desirable.
Die varieties, while not widely cataloged for this issue, can potentially add value if discovered. Collectors should examine coins for any unusual characteristics that might indicate a rare die pairing or mint error.
The overall scarcity of high-grade examples means that even small improvements in condition can result in significant price increases, particularly for coins grading MS64 and above.
