1851 Silver Three Cent Piece
Base
About This Coin
The 1851 Silver Three Cent Piece is a United States silver three-cent piece from the Silver Three Cent Pieces 1851-1873 series — the first year of the series. The Philadelphia Mint struck 5,447,400 silver three-cent pieces dated 1851 and the New Orleans Mint 720,000; only one 1851 proof is known. The obverse features a six-pointed star enclosing a Union shield and the reverse displays a Roman numeral III (three) within a large letter C. First year of the Silver Three-Cent Piece, introduced to facilitate purchasing the newly reduced three-cent postage stamps. The 1851-O is the only branch mint issue in the entire series. Struck in 75% silver, 25% copper, weighing 0.8 grams, 14 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Designed by James Barton Longacre.
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 across all of this coin's strike types, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Specifications
Strike Types & Varieties(3)
1851 (O) Silver Three Cent Piece
1851 Proof Silver Three Cent Piece
1851 Silver Three Cent Piece
Other Base Coins in This Series
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