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1886 Proof Nickel Three Cent Piece

Strike Type
1886 Proof Nickel Three Cent Piece

Coin Details

Year
1886
Denomination
Three Cent
Mint Mark
P
Strike Type
Proof
Series
Nickel Three Cent Pieces 1865-1889
Designer
James Barton Longacre
Mintage
4,290
Composition
75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Weight
1.94g
Diameter
17.9mm
Edge
Plain

Value Estimates

$498 - $498

Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-67). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.

Auction Record

$10,925 PR68 02-01-2005 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1886 Proof Nickel Three Cent Piece is a proof cent struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Nickel Three Cent Pieces 1865-1889 series. With a mintage of just 4,290, this is a rare issue sought by specialists. The obverse features Liberty facing left with a coronet inscribed LIBERTY, while the reverse displays a Roman numeral III within a wreath. Designed by James Barton Longacre. Struck in 75% copper, 25% nickel, weighing 1.94 grams, 17.9 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #3782. The Nickel Three-Cent Piece was introduced in 1865 during the Civil War coin shortage, joining the copper-nickel denomination alongside the Shield Nickel. Business-strike mintages declined sharply after the mid-1870s, making later dates scarce. Proof-only years exist at the end of the series.

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