Price Guide for 1863 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 PriceUncirculated: $1,035.00 – $15,275.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $3,000.00 – $30,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $196.00 – $4,935.00Uncirculated: $748.00 – $23,500.00
-
eBayUncirculated: $917.00 – $1,900.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $500.00 – $1,350.00Uncirculated: $1,500.00 – $50,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $259.00 – $748.00Uncirculated: $4.20 – $11,750.00
-
eBayCirculated: $920.00Uncirculated: $493.50 – $1,999.95
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $700.00 – $750.00Uncirculated: $800.00 – $20,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6,168.75 – $27,025.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $10,000.00 – $35,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $702.00 – $40,800.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $825.00 – $50,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $14,950.00 – $15,275.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $4,080.00 – $64,625.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $6,500.00 – $85,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1863 Three Cents
The 1863 Three Cent Nickel was part of the Three Cent Nickel series, introduced in 1865 to replace the silver three-cent piece. However, the 1863 issue was a pattern coin, not intended for circulation but rather as a prototype for the series that would begin two years later. This coin holds significant historical importance as it represents the transition period during the Civil War when silver coinage was being hoarded, leading to the need for alternative compositions for smaller denominations.
| Weight | 1.94 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 17.9 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| 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
The condition of the 1863 Three Cent Nickel pattern is crucial to its value. As a non-circulating pattern coin, most examples were carefully preserved, but their rarity makes high-grade specimens exceptionally valuable. Proof coins are particularly sought after, with deeply mirrored surfaces and sharp strikes commanding premium prices.
The quality of the strike, presence of any contact marks, and overall eye appeal significantly influence the coin’s desirability. Toning can also play a role, with attractive, natural toning often enhancing the coin’s appeal to collectors.
Mintage: Unknown, estimated less than 100
Rarity Scale: Very Rare
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in all grades, particularly in Proof condition
Varieties Errors: None known
Market Demand: High, due to its status as a pattern coin and historical significance
The 1863 Three Cent Nickel’s value is primarily driven by its status as a pattern coin and its historical significance. Factors that can further increase its value include:
1. Provenance: Coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors or appearances in important auctions can command higher prices.
2. Certification: Third-party grading and authentication can significantly impact value, especially for high-grade examples.
3. Die State: Early die state examples with crisp details may be more desirable to advanced collectors.
4. Historical Context: Its connection to Civil War-era coinage changes adds to its numismatic importance and collector appeal.
