The 5 Most Valuable Three-Cent Nickels: The culture of coin collecting has so created some coins, which are not merely currency, but a historical glimpse and a token of scarcity. Three-Cent Nickels are a very peculiar type of coin in the United States, and not only are they valuable but they are also much sought after among the collectors because of their historical and artistic value. We will now present you with the particulars of five of these three cent nickels, which, as well as being so pretty to the collector by being so valuable and rare, are also very valuable as investments.
Being a well-known coin collector or a mere person who would like to find a well-concealed treasure, those coins will bring you to the unexplored, yet one of the most interesting periods of American currency history.
1. 1877 Proof Three-Cent Nickel
The 1877 Three-Cent Nickel was minted exclusively as a Proof. This means it wasn’t intended for general circulation. Only 900 coins were produced this year, making it extremely rare and unique.
These coins were primarily minted for creditors and wealthy individuals, making them even more valuable as collectors. A high-quality PR-66 example sold for $250,000 at auction in 2023. Its shiny, mirror-like surface and superb cameo rating set it apart from other coins. The 1877 Three-Cent Nickel Proof is considered the finest example of the series and a symbol of quality in the world of coin collecting.
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2. 1885 Proof Three-Cent Nickel
The Three-Cent Nickel of 1885 was also not produced in circulation, but it was only in Proof and comprised of 800 coins, which further made it even more rare. This was the second-last year of the series making it even more historical.
One of the best PR-67 specimens was auctioned in 2022 at an amount of 300,000. Its unbroken surface and its high luster render it the best of the Three-Cent Nickel. This coin is especially among the coins that are in demand among the collectors who want to have rarity and uniqueness.
3. 1873 Three-Cent Nickel
The Three-Cent Nickel of 1873 is famous with its many styles, including the Open 3 and the Closed 3. The 3d closed version is incredibly rare, and it has an approximate of less than 1,000 coins left today. The majority of coins were melted down, or went into the general circulation, and coins of high quality were all the more valuable.
A good MS-65 was auctioned at $150,000 in 2023. Its sharp cuts and bright colors make it a special coin that a collector wishes to have not only due to its rarity, but also due to its appealing beauty.
4. 1878 Three-Cent Nickel
The 1878 Three-Cent Nickel was minted normally, with a production run of approximately 21,000 coins. Yet, high-quality coins are extremely rare. Most surviving coins have heavy circulation marks, further increasing the value of high-quality coins.
An excellent MS-66 example sold for $200,000 at auction in 2022. Its smooth surface and sharp details make it a special coin. If you’re looking for perfection, the 1878 Three-Cent Nickel may be ideal for your collection.
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5. 1865 Three-Cent Nickel

The 1865 Three-Cent Nickel was the first coin in this series and also marks the first year of this denomination. This coin is generally found in low quality, as only 11 million coins were minted. However, high-quality coins are extremely rare. Most coins have weak markings or surface imperfections, making high-quality coins extremely valuable.
An excellent MS-67 example sold for $180,000 at auction in 2023. Its shiny surface and brilliant tone make it a gem for any serious collection. Furthermore, this coin is also historically significant, being the first Three-Cent Nickel minted in 1865, when America was recovering from the Civil War.
Why are Three-Cent Nickels so highly valued?
The high price of these coins is explained by a number of reasons:
- Rarity: These coins had a small number of coins minted and with time few people have been able to preserve the coins.
- Quality: Coins of high quality with no scratches have a high price whereas those that have been damaged have a lesser price.
- Historical meaning: The coins are a reminder of the past and they have a cultural and patriotic meaning.
- Demand: The popularity of American coins has created additional rivalry amongst the collectors and this has pushed the coins to even greater prices.
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Could you have a treasure?
It is all a big improbability that in normal life, one can come across a three cent nickel; but it is not totally impossible. Such coins can be found in old estate auctions, antique collectibles or even in uncovered family heirlooms. A little nickel coin, minted between 1865 and 1889, would be worth having a valuation. It may fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars, even millions of dollars.
Conclusion:
Nickels in three cent are not coins but they represent history and rareness of the Americans. Regardless of whether you are an old collector or a new one, the information about these five coins can be a motivational one, and you may be interested even more in the sphere of collecting. In case you ever find one of such coins, it is not only a financial opportunity, but also a rare experience of being in touch with history.
FAQs:
Q. What makes Three-Cent Nickels so valuable?
A. Their rarity, historical significance, and condition make them highly sought after by collectors.
Q. Which is the rarest Three-Cent Nickel?
A. The 1877 Proof Three-Cent Nickel is extremely rare, with only 900 coins produced.
Q. Can these coins be found in everyday life?
A. It’s unlikely, but old family collections, estate auctions, or vintage finds may occasionally reveal them.