1868 Three Cent Patterns

About This Coin

The 1868 Three Cent Patterns is a United States cent from the Reconstruction Era Patterns (1866-1869) series — 3rd of 4 years in the series. In 1868, coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint. The obverse features experimental designs exploring post-war coinage concepts and the reverse displays various experimental designs including nickel and aluminum compositions. Minted during Reconstruction and the Gilded Age, as the nation healed from civil war and debated the role of silver and gold in the monetary system. A notable auction result reached $19K in PR65 grade at Bowers & Ruddy. Designed by Various Mint engravers.