1866-P Three-Cent Nickel Fine

When Is A Nickel Only Worth 3 Cents?

The answer, of course, is when it's a Three Cent Nickel. You see, beginning in 1851, the United States Mint struck three-cent coins in highly pure 90% silver for making change and for buying stamps, which cost 3 cents at the time. But, due to hoarding during the Civil War, the mint quickly changed the coin's composition to base metal, and in 1866, struck more than 4.8 million three-cent pieces. These base-metal pieces would continue to be struck until 1889 before they were phased out leaving nothing more than a passing memory–and a unique coin for modern collectors!

The Coin Many Collectors Aren't Even Aware Of

This coin was struck by the "Mother Mint" in Philadelphia in 1866 during the second year of issue for the base-metal variety's short-lived series. Designed by James Longacre, fourth Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, it features Lady Liberty on the obverse, and a wreath and the roman numeral 3 on the reverse. Plus, each one available here comes in nice, Fine (F) condition. Today, many collectors aren't even aware that this coin was ever even struck!

Key-Date 1866 Three-Cent Nickels

Now you can acquire this fascinating piece of American Civil War-era history struck the same year Jesse James took part in his first robbery, knocking off a bank in Liberty, Missouri–the first daylight bank robbery in United States history! That same year the country's first roller rink was opened in Newport, Rhode Island and Tennessee became the first former Confederate state to be readmitted to the Union following the American Civil War. It was also a big year for animal lovers as the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) was founded in New York City.

Acquiring this genuine coin from that historic American era just makes good "cents." But with only a limited supply available, you'll need to secure yours now before they're all gone!