If you’ve got old coins stashed away in a drawer or tucked into a coin album, now’s the time to take a closer look—especially if you have any Three-Cent Nickels. Minted between 1865 and 1889, these small and often overlooked coins can be worth a fortune today, with certain rare examples selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars.
In this article, we break down five of the most valuable Three-Cent Nickels, their backstories, and what makes them so sought after by collectors.
Why Are Three-Cent Nickels Valuable?
While the Three-Cent Nickel may seem like an odd denomination today, it was a useful coin in post-Civil War America. But what makes some of these coins valuable today comes down to a few key factors:
- Low mintages or limited editions
- High-grade or proof condition
- Historical significance
- Die varieties and design changes
Top 5 Valuable Three-Cent Nickels
Here’s a detailed look at the five most prized Three-Cent Nickels you should know about:
1. 1877 Proof Three-Cent Nickel
- Mintage: Only 510 produced
- Type: Proof-only issue
- Value: One sold for $250,000 in pristine PR-66 condition
- Why It’s Valuable: With no business strikes that year, this coin was made solely for collectors. Extremely limited supply makes it a trophy for numismatists.
2. 1885 Proof Three-Cent Nickel
- Mintage: 1,000 coins
- Type: Proof-only issue
- Value: PR-67 version sold for $300,000
- Why It’s Valuable: As one of the final years before discontinuation, this low-mintage proof coin is incredibly rare and often in top condition.
3. 1873 Closed 3 Variety
- Mintage: Unknown; far fewer than the Open 3 version
- Type: Circulation coin with numeral variation
- Value: Can exceed $10,000+ in high grades
- Why It’s Valuable: The Closed “3” in the date was quickly changed, making early strikes rare. Sharp-eyed collectors look for this key variety.
4. 1878 Three-Cent Nickel
- Mintage: Approx. 2,350 business strikes
- Type: Regular issue
- Value: MS-66+ sold for over $200,000
- Why It’s Valuable: Despite being a business strike, most 1878 coins were struck poorly. High-grade examples are extremely rare.
5. 1865 First-Year Three-Cent Nickel
- Mintage: 11,382,000
- Type: First-year issue
- Value: MS-67 examples fetch up to $19,800
- Why It’s Valuable: Although common in lower grades, gem-condition coins from this first year are treasured by collectors.
5 Valuable Three-Cent Nickels
| Year | Variety/Type | Mintage | Highest Known Value | Grade | Noteworthy Detail |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1877 | Proof Only | 510 | $250,000 | PR-66 | No business strikes issued |
| 1885 | Proof Only | 1,000 | $300,000 | PR-67 | Second-to-last year of the series |
| 1873 | Closed 3 Variety | Low Estimate | $10,000+ | MS Grade | Rare date numeral style |
| 1878 | Business Strike | ~2,350 | $200,000 | MS-66+ | Extremely rare in high grade |
| 1865 | First-Year Issue | 11,382,000 | $19,800 | MS-67 | Desirable due to inaugural year |
How to Spot a Valuable Three-Cent Nickel
- Inspect the date closely: Look for variations like the “Closed 3” in 1873.
- Check the coin’s luster and sharpness: High-grade coins with minimal wear are far more valuable.
- Proof vs. Business Strike: Proof coins are more reflective and struck with extra care. These are typically rarer and worth more.
Tips for Coin Holders and Collectors
- Store your coins in acid-free holders to prevent oxidation.
- Get them professionally graded by PCGS or NGC for accurate valuation.
- Avoid cleaning your coins—this can drastically reduce value.
Three-Cent Nickels may not be in your everyday pocket change, but they could be hiding in your collection or family heirlooms.
With some coins reaching values of $200,000 to $300,000, these pieces of American history are not to be underestimated. Check your stash—you just might be sitting on a small fortune!
FAQs
What is a Proof Coin?
A: Proof coins are specially struck for collectors with highly polished dies and blanks, resulting in a sharp, mirror-like finish.
Are Three-Cent Nickels still in circulation?
A: No, they were discontinued in 1889. However, many still exist in private collections and can be extremely valuable.
How can I know the grade of my coin?
A: Submit it to a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC, who will examine and certify the coin’s condition and authenticity.