Price Guide for 1859 Three Cents Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1859 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.
1859 3 Cents (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $37.00 - $399.50Uncirculated: $2.00 - $31,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $49.00 - $599.99Uncirculated: $100.00 - $6,100.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $65.00 - $375.00Uncirculated: $400.00 - $40,000.00
1859 3 Cents (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $633.00Uncirculated: $2.60 - $23,100.00
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eBayCirculated: $349.99 - $674.99Uncirculated: $415.00 - $4,770.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $800.00 - $11,000.00
1859 3 Cents, CAM (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $805.00 - $10,575.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,100.00 - $25,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1859 Three Cents
The 1859 Three Cent Silver coin, also known as a 'trime', was part of the silver three-cent piece series minted from 1851 to 1873. This coin was introduced in response to the decrease in postage rates from five cents to three cents, making it convenient for purchasing stamps.
The year 1859 saw a relatively low mintage compared to earlier years, as the coin's popularity was waning due to the introduction of the nickel three-cent piece in 1865 and the increasing use of paper currency during the Civil War era.
| Weight | 0.8 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 14 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
| Composition | 75% silver, 25% copper |
| Obverse Design | Liberty head facing left, wearing a coronet inscribed with 'LIBERTY', designed by James B. Longacre |
| Reverse Design | Roman numeral III within an ornate C-shaped design, surrounded by a wreath, designed by James B. Longacre |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of the 1859 Three Cent Silver piece significantly impacts its value and desirability among collectors. Due to its small size and intricate design, finding high-grade examples can be challenging.
Uncirculated specimens with original mint luster and minimal contact marks are highly prized. The strike quality is particularly important, as weak strikes can affect the coin's overall appeal. Toning can also play a role in value, with attractively toned pieces often commanding a premium.
Mintage: 364,200
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above due to the coin's small size and delicate design
Varieties Errors: None widely recognized
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Rarity in high grades is a key factor affecting the 1859 Three Cent Silver's value. While circulated examples are relatively available, gem-quality specimens (MS65 and above) are scarce and highly sought after.
The coin's historical significance as part of the silver three-cent piece series adds to its appeal. Collectors often seek to complete date sets of this denomination, making the 1859 issue an important component of such collections.
Overall eye appeal, including factors like strike quality, luster, and absence of distracting marks or blemishes, can significantly influence the coin's value beyond its technical grade.
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