Price Guide for 1888 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: $31.00 – $446.50Uncirculated: $1.50 – $15,669.00
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eBayCirculated: $67.85 – $257.00Uncirculated: $249.99 – $2,395.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $65.00 – $325.00Uncirculated: $350.00 – $25,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $111.63 – $192.00Uncirculated: $1.35 – $13,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $138.71 – $165.50Uncirculated: $204.50 – $1,300.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $150.00 – $275.00Uncirculated: $300.00 – $8,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $240.00 – $5,520.00
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eBayUncirculated: $400.00 – $971.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $450.00 – $8,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $558.13 – $21,850.00
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eBayUncirculated: $560.00 – $724.95
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $850.00 – $25,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1888 Three Cents
The 1888 Three Cent Nickel was part of the Three Cent Nickel series, which was produced from 1865 to 1889. This coin was introduced after the Civil War to help facilitate the redemption of fractional currency and provide small change for commerce.
By 1888, the Three Cent Nickel was nearing the end of its production, as its usefulness had diminished due to the popularity of the five-cent nickel.
| Weight | 1.94 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 17.9 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia only) |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Liberty head facing left, designed by James B. Longacre |
| Reverse Design | Roman numeral III within a wreath of corn, wheat, and cotton, designed by James B. Longacre |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of the 1888 Three Cent Nickel significantly impacts its value. Due to its low mintage, well-preserved specimens are highly sought after by collectors. Uncirculated examples, particularly those grading MS65 or higher, command substantial premiums.
For proof coins, cameo and deep cameo contrast between the fields and devices can greatly enhance value. The presence of original mint luster and absence of contact marks or hairlines are crucial factors in determining grade and value.
Mintage: 36,501
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None known
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 4,582
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades PR65 and above
Varieties Errors: None known
Market Demand: High among proof set collectors and type set collectors
Toning can play a role in the desirability of 1888 Three Cent Nickels. Attractive, natural toning can increase the coin’s appeal and value, particularly for proof specimens.
As a low-mintage issue from the final years of the series, the 1888 Three Cent Nickel is popular among both type set collectors and series specialists. This dual demand can drive up prices for high-grade examples.
The historical significance of the Three Cent Nickel as a denomination that is no longer used in U.S. coinage adds to its collectible appeal and potential value.
