1865 Three Cent Patterns

About This Coin

The 1865 Three Cent Patterns is a United States cent from the Civil War Patterns (1860-1865) series — the final year of the series. In 1865, coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint. The obverse features experimental designs reflecting wartime themes including patriotic motifs and alternative compositions and the reverse displays various experimental designs. Produced during the Civil War, when coin hoarding caused severe shortages and the Mint experimented with new compositions to keep coins in circulation. A notable auction result reached $18K in PR66 grade at Heritage Auctions. Designed by James Barton Longacre and other Mint engravers.