Price Guide for 1894 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: $30.00 – $1,527.50Uncirculated: $74.00 – $12,650.00
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eBayCirculated: $5.00 – $470.55Uncirculated: $132.50 – $2,225.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $15.00 – $525.00Uncirculated: $550.00 – $13,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $108.00 – $718.00Uncirculated: $1.40 – $4,140.00
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eBayCirculated: $152.00 – $200.00Uncirculated: $177.50 – $2,214.99
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $150.00 – $225.00Uncirculated: $250.00 – $11,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $190.00 – $15,862.50
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eBayUncirculated: $340.00 – $1,400.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $300.00 – $15,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1894 Nickel
The 1894 Liberty Head (V) Nickel was part of a series that began in 1883 and continued until 1912. This coin is notable for its low mintage, making it a key date in the Liberty Head Nickel series. The design, created by Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber, features Lady Liberty on the obverse and a wreath with the denomination on the reverse.
| Weight | 5.0 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.2 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Liberty Head (V Nickel), designed by Charles E. Barber |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding the denomination, designed by Charles E. Barber |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1894 Liberty Head Nickels. Due to their age and relative scarcity, high-grade examples are particularly valuable. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are extremely desirable and command significant premiums.
Key factors affecting condition include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more valuable.
2. Luster: Original mint luster adds to the coin’s appeal and value.
3. Surface preservation: Fewer marks, scratches, or signs of wear increase value.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance desirability among collectors.
Mintage: 5,413,132
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
The 1894 Nickel’s value is primarily driven by its low mintage and key date status. Other factors that can affect its value include:
1. Historical significance: As a 19th-century coin, it appeals to collectors of vintage American coinage.
2. Set completion: Many collectors seek this date to complete their Liberty Head Nickel sets.
3. Preservation: Well-preserved examples are scarce, making them highly sought after.
4. Market trends: Overall demand for classic American coins can influence its value.
While no major varieties or errors are known for this date, any discovered could significantly increase the coin’s value and collector interest.
