1851 Silver Three Cent Piece

About This Coin

The 1851 Silver Three Cent Piece is a United States cent from the Silver Three Cent Pieces 1851-1873 series. The obverse features a six-pointed star enclosing a Union shield, while the reverse displays a Roman numeral III (three) within a large letter C. Designed by James Barton Longacre. Struck in 75% silver, 25% copper, weighing 0.8 grams, 14.3 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. The Silver Three-Cent Piece (trime) was introduced in 1851, primarily to facilitate the purchase of postage stamps which had just been reduced to three cents. Three types exist based on the number of outlines around the star and variations in the reverse frame. The unusual denomination and small size (14mm) make this a fascinating series. Many dates from 1863-1873 are proof-only with very low mintages.