Price Guide for 1876 Nickel 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: $17.00 – $384.00Uncirculated: $114.00 – $9,987.50
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eBayCirculated: $20.50 – $469.99Uncirculated: $129.99 – $5,800.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $50.00 – $375.00Uncirculated: $400.00 – $7,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $2.75 – $4,313.00
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eBayUncirculated: $235.70 – $775.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $300.00 – $325.00Uncirculated: $350.00 – $5,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $219.00Uncirculated: $863.00 – $1,920.00
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eBayCirculated: $427.49
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2,250.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $660.00 – $978.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,175.00Uncirculated: $630.00 – $3,120.00
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eBayCirculated: $499.95
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,500.00 – $1,750.00Uncirculated: $2,000.00 – $2,750.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $204.00 – $13,800.00
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eBayUncirculated: $335.95 – $1,034.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $600.00 – $7,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,093.00 – $18,400.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $3,500.00 – $20,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1876 Nickel
The 1876 Shield Nickel was minted during the United States’ centennial year, a time of great national pride and celebration. This coin represents a significant piece of American numismatic history, as it was part of the Shield Nickel series, which was the first five-cent piece to be composed of copper and nickel.
The Shield Nickel design, introduced in 1866, was nearing the end of its run by 1876, as it would be replaced by the Liberty Head (V Nickel) design in 1883. The 1876 issue holds particular interest for collectors due to its association with the country’s 100th anniversary.
| Weight | 5 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 20.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia only) |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Liberty head facing left, designed by Charles E. Barber |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding the roman numeral V, designed by Charles E. Barber |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1876 Shield Nickel significantly impacts its value and desirability among collectors. Due to the coin’s age and the prevalence of weak strikes in this series, finding high-grade examples can be challenging.
Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are particularly valuable, with premium prices for those exhibiting strong strikes and minimal contact marks. The presence of original mint luster greatly enhances the coin’s appeal and value.
In circulated grades, coins with clear design details and minimal wear on high points (such as the shield on the obverse and the wreath on the reverse) are more desirable. The absence of environmental damage, such as corrosion or heavy discoloration, is crucial for maintaining value across all grades.
Mintage: 2,530,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above due to weak strikes common to the series
Varieties Errors: None particularly notable for this year
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens and those with historical appeal
Several factors can further influence the value of an 1876 Shield Nickel:
1. Historical Significance: As a centennial year issue, this coin holds special appeal for collectors interested in American history.
2. Strike Quality: Well-struck examples with full detail are highly prized, as many Shield Nickels suffer from weak strikes.
3. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance the coin’s appeal and value, particularly for uncirculated specimens.
4. Die State: Late die state examples showing interesting die cracks or cuds may command a premium from variety collectors.
5. Provenance: Coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors can see increased value.
6. Certification: Third-party grading and encapsulation can provide assurance of authenticity and condition, potentially increasing marketability and value.
