1861 Silver Three Cent Piece
Base
About This Coin
The 1861 Silver Three Cent Piece is a United States silver three-cent piece from the Silver Three Cent Pieces 1851-1873 series. The Philadelphia Mint struck 498,000 silver three-cent pieces dated 1861, including 1,000 proofs. 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. Produced during the Civil War, when coin hoarding caused severe shortages and the Mint experimented with new compositions to keep coins in circulation. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 0.75 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(2)
1861 Proof Silver Three Cent Piece
1861 Silver Three Cent Piece
Other Base Coins in This Series
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