1857 Three Cents Value: Mint Varieties, Rarity, and Current Prices

Price Guide for 1857 Three Cents Variants

This guide presents price ranges for 1857 Three Cents variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.

1857 3 Cents (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $21.00 - $646.25

  Uncirculated: $2.40 - $57,600.00
• eBay

  Circulated: $34.00 - $360.00

  Uncirculated: $57.50 - $2,905.89
• PCGS Price Guide

  Circulated: $65.00 - $500.00

  Uncirculated: $550.00 - $65,000.00

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1857 3 Cents (Proof)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $2,760.00

  Uncirculated: $15.00 - $43,200.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Uncirculated: $2,500.00 - $60,000.00

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1857 3 Cents, CAM (Proof)

• 3rd Party Price

  Uncirculated: $11,500.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Uncirculated: $55,000.00

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Design and Specifications of the 1857 Three Cents

Rarity Factors and Value Drivers

The condition of 1857 Three Cent Silver coins significantly impacts their value and collectibility. These coins were often weakly struck, making high-grade examples particularly desirable. Coins with full details on Liberty's hair and the reverse design command premium prices.

Luster is a crucial factor, with original, frosty surfaces being highly prized. Toning can also add to the coin's appeal, with attractive, natural toning patterns enhancing value. However, heavy wear, cleaning, or damage can substantially reduce the coin's worth.

Strike quality is particularly important for 1857 Three Cent Silver coins. Well-struck examples with sharp details are scarce and highly sought after. The small size of these coins made them prone to damage, so specimens free from significant marks or scratches command higher premiums.

While not considered a key date, the 1857 issue is important as a representative of the Type 2 design. Collectors assembling type sets or complete series of Three Cent Silver pieces contribute to the demand for this issue, especially in higher grades.